There is a saying that you get what you pay for. Basically, you won’t get as good a grill for under $250 and you’d be better of paying, say, $1000. However, when it comes to grills, you can still get a good one at this cheaper price point.
You might not be grilling that often or you might not have the space to have a bigger grill so it makes sense to not spend as much as if you were grilling every day.
Let’s take a look at the budget options, but You should consider checking out other options including grills for under $400, and also grills for under $500 to find the best grill for Your needs.
Invalid table id.Electric Grills
Electric grills are usually very reasonably priced and are more economical in the long run than either charcoal or gas because the electricity is generally cheaper than charcoal and gas bottles.
In this article, we are going to look at some of the best grills out there which are under $250. I have chosen one charcoal grill, one gas and one electric to find the best grill for Your money.
Best Charcoal Grill under $250
Royal Gourmet BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker
- 811 Square Inches: Includes 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates, 184 sq. in. chrome-plated warming rack and 184 sq. in. offset smoker
- Tasty Smoke Flavors: The offset smoker is firmly attached to charcoal grill to ensure good circulation of heat and smoke. Easy to open side door to add charcoal and remove ashes; air vent stokes fire instantly
- Adjustable Pan: 2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan creates better heat control and holds up to 4.4 lbs. of coal
- Temperature Monitor: Lid-mounted thermometer gauge helps check and monitor the cooking temperature and you can cook with great confidence
- Ample Space: Front and side tables offer workspace for seasonings and grilling tools. The bottom shelf provides extra storage space and holds up to only 20 lb. accessories when they are evenly distributed
Char-Broil Performance 300 2-Burner Cabinet Liquid Propane Gas Grill
This gas grill has plenty of room for cooking. The cooking surface measures 15.9” wide by 18.5” deep and there is 300 square inches of cooking space.
It won’t be too difficult to entertain with this grill. In addition, there is an additional 100 square inches of cooking space on a rack. You can cook sides and warm burger buns on this. It measures 13.2” wide x 7.4” deep.
The grates are made of porcelain-coated cast iron which are resistant to rust so you can expect to have this grill for a good few years. The lid is made of durable stainless steel. The burners are also made of stainless steel and give you a wide temperature range.
- GAS GRILL: Powered by liquid propane gas, this grill runs on a 20-pound tank, not included. It reaches cooking temperatures quickly, delivers high temps and maintains even heat.
- COOKING AREA: Grill up to 16 burgers, 8 chicken breasts or 6 steaks on 300-square-inches of primary cooking space. Cook meats and larger items on the primary grates and use the 100-square inch warming rack to cook with indirect heat and keep food warm.
- BTU RATING: This grill has a 24,000 BTU rating.
- SIDE SHELF: A large side shelf provides ample space to set plates, tools, sauces and rubs while you grill.
- GRATES: Cast-iron grates are porcelain-coated to resist rust and make them easier to clean. They retain heat to cook food evenly and leave impressive grill marks.
There are side shelves which give you space to store accessories and also to prepare food. There is also a removable porcelain-coated grease pan which means that it is easy to clean.
Check out other gas grills in our reviews of:
Giantex 1350W Electric BBQ Grill Non-Stick
This electric grill is easy to assemble so don’t worry that it’s going to be difficult. Assembly steps are shown in picture form with written instructions as well.
The grill comes with a stand and a base with five feet making it sturdy. The grill is completely supported so you don’t have to worry that it’s going to collapse while you are cooking. There is 240 square inches of cooking space so you will easily be able to cook a meal for the family and even a few friends.
- [Non-stick Grill Griddle Plate]: The grill plate features three separate cooking areas, allowing you to prepare various foods simultaneously. With a high-quality non-stick coating, it’s easy to turn and serve your grilled dishes without burning.
- [Grease Collection & Swivel Tray]: The grease bowl efficiently collects excess fat, keeping the grill clean. The condiment tray, mounted on the stand, offers easy access for seasonings and rotates 360 degrees for convenience.
- [Detachable Temperature Regulator]: The detachable temperature regulator allows you to easily set your desired heat level, typically reaching optimal temperature in about three minutes. The indicator light will turn off when the set temperature is achieved, ensuring safe operation.
- [Removable & Sturdy Stand with Ideal Height]: The electric grill includes a stand that provides convenient height and stability. Its five-foot base ensures robust support for the grill and your food.
- [Easy Installation and Maintenance]: All components are clearly labeled for easy assembly, with step-by-step instructions in both images and text. Cleaning is simple—just wash the grill plate and grease bowl with warm, soapy water. Remember to unplug and let the grill cool before cleaning.
There is a bowl which collects the grease from your food making the grill easier to clean. Before cleaning remember to disconnect the appliance from the electricity supply and wait until it’s cooled down.
Which is the Best Type of Grill under $250?
The answer to this question is emphatically a charcoal grill. You can get a good charcoal grill for much less than $250, but you do have to remember that you will have to buy charcoal for it and the price of this might make it more expensive than other types of grills in the long run.
However, a charcoal grill could last you a good 10 years while a low-cost gas grill might only last for 2 or 3 years depending on how often you use it, the climate and what you cook on it.
For example, acidic marinades are not good for grills as they can corrode the metal. Yes, a gas grill is easier to use. You just attach a gas bottle and turn on the ignition. On the other hand, many people believe that a charcoal grill gives a more authentic flavor.
If You need a bit pricier grill check out:
What to Look for in a Gas Grill Under $250
Go for the simplest grill out there. You don’t want a grill with lots of burners and features. These cost money and if the grill is cheap you can assume that these extras are of poor quality. I would recommend getting a grill with between 250 and 300 square inches of cooking space and 2 burners. Look at the burners before buying and if you can bend the metal, don’t buy the grill. A way to protect your burners is by coating them in cooking oil. However, oil breaks down at high temperatures so be prepared to coat the burners regularly. This will stop them from rusting and will extend their life.Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a grill under $250 you should look at the smaller ones. If they are bigger, they possibly won’t be as well-made and durable. Most people are looking for a grill that is going to last a few years, not just one summer.
You probably get more for your money if you buy a charcoal grill as prices are higher for electric and gas grills. However, they do make more mess and aren’t as controllable as electric or gas. On the other hand, charcoal grills give your food that authentic smoky flavor which many people love.
I hope that this article has given you an insight into what’s available if you are looking for a grill under $250. You can buy gas, charcoal and electric grills around this price so you will be spoilt for choice.