The thought of summer time and sitting on your deck and firing up the grill to do some outdoor cooking is something that just gets me excited. Whether its doing hot dogs or cheeseburgers, I am always interested in the latest and greatest grill to hit the market, what its features are and the reviews on it. But, as a frugal shopper myself, I tend to look for the more affordable grills vs the higher end ones. I wanted to write about how to find gas grills at an affordable price, and if it was possible to find a great value at a price range of $100 or less. Searching for the best gas grill under $100 can be a tedious task, especially with various options available on the market.
Fortunately, this blog post aims to simplify that process by presenting top picks for affordable and high-performing gas grills. Whether its a large grill or small gas grill, these budget-friendly options provide excellent value for money, ensuring a fantastic grilling experience without breaking the bank. So, whether hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a family cookout, rest assured that a great gas grill under $100 is within reach.
Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Gas Grill Under $100
Before we look at options, when shopping for a gas grill under $100, there are several factors you should consider to ensure that you get the best value for your money. Here are some of the most important factors to keep in mind:
1) Size and Cooking Area
One of the most important factors to consider when buying a gas grill is the size and cooking area. The size of the grill will determine how much food you can cook at once, and how easy it is to move around. It is a good idea to find out the square inches of cooking space, If you plan on cooking for a large group of people or family, or want to have the option to cook multiple types of food at once to make each use of gas more efficient, then a larger grill with a bigger cooking area may be the best choice for you.
2) Number of Burners
Similar to above, the number of burners is another important factor to consider when buying a gas grill. As the square inches of cooking surface goes up, you need more burners to cover that space. A grill with more burners will give you more control over the temperature, get to high temperatures and allow you to cook different types of food at once. However, a grill with fewer burners may be easier to use and maintain.
3) Material and Build Quality
The material and build quality of the grill are also important factors to consider. You want a grill that is built to last and can withstand the elements. Look for grills with sturdy construction and high-quality materials such as stainless steel or cast iron, along with solid control knobs. Stainless steel burners are a good option to look for as well, as other forms of metal tend to rust over time.
4) Cooking Performance
The cooking performance of the grill is perhaps the most important factor to consider. As already mentioned, look for a grill with multiple burners, which will allow you to create different heat zones and cook a variety of foods at once. Also, consider the BTU rating of the grill, which will give you an idea of how quickly it will heat up and how hot it will get. A higher BTU rating does not necessarily mean a better grill, however, as other factors like the size of the cooking surface and the placement of the burners can also impact performance including consistent temperatures and avoiding hot spots.
For more information on gas grills, check out this Consumer Reports article on the topic.
5) Safety Features to Look for in Gas Grills
When it comes to cooking with gas grills, safety should always be a top priority. Look for grills with features such as a built-in thermometer, which will help you monitor the temperature of your grill and prevent overcooking. Additionally, make sure the grill has a sturdy, stable base and a secure lid to prevent accidental tipping. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use and maintenance of your gas grill.
6) Type of Grill
As we will see with the options listed below, in the under $100 price range, there are various kinds of grills. Some look like standard grills, others are more table top portable types. Also note that this review doesn’t include other types like reviewing what the best charcoal grills are, or an electric grill, or pellet grills . Those are all in their own categories and deserve their own review. This review is strictly for natural gas grills or propane grills under $100.
Additional Features
Finally, you should also consider any additional features that the grill may have. Some grills come with side shelves, a warming rack, side tables, extra storage space underneath, or other features that can make cooking easier and more convenient. Consider what features are important to you and look for a grill that has them.
By considering these factors, you can find the best gas grill under $100 that meets your needs and provides you with an enjoyable grilling experience.
Best Times of Year to Buy, Discounts & Deals
If you’re looking for the best deal on a gas grill, timing is everything. The best time to buy a grill is typically at the end of summer or beginning of fall, when stores are clearing out inventory to make room for winter items. Additionally, keep an eye out for holiday sales such as Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day. Check with your local hardware or home goods store for discounts and deals on gas grills.
Top Picks for Best Gas Grills Under $100
Knowing all the main features you you need to look for, now its time to take a look at some of the best gas grills under $100 that we could find. If you’re on a tight budget but still want to enjoy delicious grilled meals, we’ve got you covered. In no particular order, here are our top picks for the best gas grills under $100:
**NOTE: Some of the products below are priced above $100 now, but were right at or below $100 at the time of writing this.
1) Cuisinart CGG-180 Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill
The Cuisinart CGG-180 Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill is a compact and lightweight option that is one of the best portable grill options you can find. It is perfect for camping, tailgating, or small outdoor spaces. It has a cooking area of 145 square inches and a single burner that provides 5,500 BTUs of heat. The grill also features a foldable design, making it easy to store and transport. Additionally, the porcelain-enameled grate is non-stick and easy to clean.
For more information on the Cuisinart CGG-180 Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill, visit their website.
2) Cuisinart CGG-059 Grillster 8,000 BTU Portable Gas Grill
Another Cuisinart and portable option if you’re looking for a grill that’s easy to take with you wherever you go, the Cuisinart CGG-059 Grillster 8,000 BTU Portable Gas Grill is a great option. This compact grill features a single burner that can put out up to 8,000 BTUs of heat, as well as a 146 square inch cooking surface. It also has a twist-start ignition and a built-in thermometer, which can help to ensure that your food is cooked to perfection.
One potential downside of this grill is that it can be difficult to clean, especially if you’re cooking foods that are prone to sticking. However, if you’re looking for a portable grill that can deliver great results on the go, the Cuisinart CGG-059 Grillster is definitely worth considering.
If you’re interested in learning more about the Cuisinart CGG-059 Grillster 8,000 BTU Portable Gas Grill, you can check out the product page on Cuisinart’s website.
3) Blackstone TableTop Grill – 17 Inch Portable Gas Griddle
Blackstone grills have a crazy cult like following, and rightfully so. Their products are made with high quality materials, which makes them on the higher end of someone’s price range. However, if you’re a fan of griddle cooking, the Blackstone Table Top Grill – 17 Inch Portable Gas Griddle is an excellent choice for someone with a lower price point. This grill features a 260 square inch cooking surface that’s perfect for cooking up pancakes, eggs, and other breakfast favorites. This thing will be very popular at your tailgate on football weekends! It also has a built-in grease channel and a removable grease tray, which can help to make cleanup a breeze.
One potential downside of this grill is that it doesn’t have a lid, so it may not be the best choice if you’re looking to grill meats or other foods that require indirect heat. However, if you’re a fan of griddle cooking and want a portable grill that you can take with you on the go, the Blackstone Table Top Grill is definitely worth considering.
If you’re interested in learning more about the Blackstone Table Top Grill – 17 Inch Portable Gas Griddle, you can check out the product page on Blackstone’s website.
4) Weber 50060001 Q1000 Liquid Propane Grill
The Weber Q1000 is a high-quality gas grill that is perfect for small outdoor spaces or for those on a budget. It has a cooking area of 189 square inches and a single burner that provides 8,500 BTUs of heat. The grill also features a porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grate that is durable and easy to clean, as well as a built-in thermometer for precise temperature control. Additionally, the Weber Q1000 is lightweight and easy to transport.
For more information on the Weber Q1000 Gas Grill, visit their website.
5) Outdoor Gourmet 3-Burner Gas Grill
The Outdoor Gourmet is a great option for those who want a larger gas grill without breaking the bank. It features three stainless steel burners with a total cooking area of 529 square inches, providing enough space to cook for a small gathering. The grill also has folding side shelves, porcelain-coated cast-iron primary cooking grates and a porcelain-coated warming rack.
For more information on the Outdoor Gourmet Gas Grill, visit their website.
6) Char-Broil Classic 360 3-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Grill
Another product that used to be under $100 but is now slightly higher, the Char-Broil Classic 3 burner gas grill is definitely one to consider. It features three burners that can put out up to 30,000 BTUs of heat, as well as 360 square inches of cooking space. It also has a porcelain-coated steel lid and firebox, which can help to retain heat and prevent rusting. One potential downside of this grill is that it can take some time to assemble. But, if you buy from some retailers such as Ace Hardware, they will assemble for you and then you can go pickup ready to go. Either way, once it’s up and running, it’s a reliable and efficient grill that can handle a variety of different foods.
With a total cooking area of 360 square inches, it provides ample space to cook for a small family or a couple of friends. The grill also has porcelain-coated grates that are rust-resistant and easy to clean, making it a low-maintenance option. Additionally, the side shelves provide extra space for cooking tools and food prep.
For more information on the Char-Broil Classic 360 Gas Grill, visit their website.
Conclusion
Overall, finding the best gas grill under $100 can be a daunting task, and as you can see, when inflation strikes, the prices on a few of these grills can rise above that range, but that goes to show why its important to shop deals and discounts, because they do happen! By doing your research and considering factors such as size, features, and fuel type, you can narrow down your options and find a grill that fits your needs and budget. Remember, just because a grill is inexpensive doesn’t mean it can’t perform well. With proper care and maintenance, even a budget-friendly grill can last for several seasons. So, take your time, compare your options, and choose the gas grill that is right for you. Happy grilling!
