How much should I spend to buy a good grill?
The cost of your grill can vary widely.
You can get a gas grill for under $100 USD or you can spend $10,000. Charcoal grills can be had for as little as $20 or over $2,000. There are many reasons for the difference in prices, but one of the most important is durability. The least expensive grills are simply not built to last.
You should only ever spend as much as you can realistically afford, and some basic price ranges can help you to decide.
Your budget will determine the quality of the grill that you buy.
Myths about the cost of a grill
One of the biggest myths in home grilling is that you need to spend a lot to get a capable grill. That’s not necessarily true. Sometimes the best cook can work with the most basic tools. Whether spending under $150 or around $1000, you’ll be able to cook your ingredients to perfection. Quality improves as the price goes up, so you are rewarded for spending more, but it’s not essential.
Inexpensive grills
Inexpensive grills are made from cheaper components and materials, and they aren’t as durable as models that cost more.
However, there is still value to be found at the bargain end of the market. While you’ll miss out on stainless steel, a solid cabinet, and special grill technologies, you can still get a reliable grill for under $150.
At this price, you’ll find entry-level grills designed for first-time grillers and anyone on a strict budget. At around $600, when shopping around this price you’ll get a good lower mid-range grill made from durable materials with plenty of cooking area for families and groups. To maximize your budget at this price, you could choose a charcoal grill.
High end grills
At around $1000, this is the higher end of the mid-range / lower-premium. Better materials, higher quality fit, finish, and special features are common at this price. If you want premium materials, more space to cook, a larger burner configuration, and special burner features, consider spending around $1000 for your next grill.
Spending around this price will give you more flexibility to cook the largest ingredients (direct or indirect) or cook for large groups. You’ll enjoy the fit and finish that comes from premium construction methods and materials.
The bottom line
Ultimately spending around $500 is recommended if you want to make a long-term investment with good warranty coverage. You’ll want to check the warranty on any the grill. Weber offers a generous 10-year warranty on the Spirit models.
For the best selection and customer service with knowledgeable advice, check our SDBBQ! We can install your custom grill for you and we specialize in islands as well. We also have all the accessories and recommendations for your next BBQing event.
