Buying a new grill in 2026? This ultimate guide helps you choose the perfect BBQ grill under $500 and $1000, breaking down the best gas, charcoal, and pellet options for every budget and skill level.
Best BBQ Grills 2026: The Ultimate Guide Under $500 and $1000
The grill market is a crowded place, with options ranging from simple charcoal kettles to high-tech smart grills. Trying to find the best BBQ grill for your budget can feel like a daunting task, especially when you’re just getting started. What features are worth the extra money, and what can you get away with for a simple, backyard cookout?
This guide is designed to simplify your choice. We’ll break down the best grill options for 2026, focusing on two key price points: under $500 and under $1000. We’ll show you exactly what to expect in each category, helping you find a grill that delivers amazing food without breaking the bank.
What to Look for at Each Price Point
The difference between a grill under $500 and one under $1000 often comes down to three things: build quality, size, and extra features.
- Under $500: At this price point, you should prioritize core functionality and solid construction. Look for a grill made with durable, enamel-coated steel and a reliable ignition system. You may not get a side burner or a lot of extras, but you can find a grill that cooks great food for years.
- Under $1000: Here, you can expect significant upgrades. Look for grills with better materials (often stainless steel), more burners for versatile cooking zones, a larger cooking area, and useful features like side burners, sear stations, or built-in thermometers. The overall build quality and heat retention will also be superior.
Best BBQ Grills Under $500
These grills offer the best value for a beginner or anyone on a budget.
- Best Gas Grill: A classic 3-burner gas grill from a reputable brand offers the best combination of convenience and performance at this price point. It’s perfect for quick weeknight meals, heats up in minutes, and is easy to clean.
- Best Charcoal Grill: For the best flavor, it’s hard to beat the value of a classic kettle-style charcoal grill. These grills are incredibly versatile, allowing you to grill directly or set up a two-zone system for smoking. They are simple to use, easy to transport, and can produce competition-level food for a fraction of the cost.
- Best Pellet Grill: While the options are limited in this category, entry-level pellet grills are becoming more common. They offer a taste of “set-it-and-forget-it” convenience and are a great way to ease into the world of low-and-slow smoking. For more on this type of grill, check out our Pellet Smokers Guide.
Best BBQ Grills Under $1000
Step up your game with these feature-rich and high-performance options.
- Best Gas Grill: A 4- or 5-burner gas grill with a side burner and a cast-iron grate is a fantastic upgrade. These grills provide a larger cooking area, allowing you to cook for a crowd, and the extra burners give you more control over your heat zones.
- Best Charcoal Grill: A large ceramic kamado-style grill is the king of this price point for charcoal lovers. These grills are famous for their incredible heat retention, which makes them perfect for grilling, smoking, and even baking pizza.
- Best All-Purpose Grill: If you can’t decide between the flavor of charcoal and the convenience of gas, a hybrid grill is a great solution. These models offer both grilling options in a single unit, giving you the best of both worlds.
A Note on Electric Grills
While not the best for traditional barbecue flavor, electric grills are a fantastic option for apartment dwellers or those living in areas with no-flame restrictions. They are convenient, easy to use, and often fall well within the sub-$500 category.
Final Buying Advice
The best grill is the one you will use most often.
- Choose Gas if… you value convenience, speed, and want to cook on a whim.
- Choose Charcoal if… you prioritize authentic, smoky flavor and enjoy the hands-on process of fire management.
- Choose Pellet if… you want a “set-and-forget-it” experience that delivers great results with minimal effort.
No matter which one you choose, the right gear is just the first step. For more on tools and gadgets, check out our Essential BBQ Equipment Guide.
Conclusion
Finding the best BBQ grill for your budget is about knowing what to look for and prioritizing the features that matter most to you. Whether you choose a simple charcoal kettle or a feature-packed gas grill, an investment in the right equipment is an investment in countless delicious meals and memorable moments. Now that you have your guide, go out and get grilling!
