When you cook for a household of six, eight, or more, a standard three-burner grill just does not cut it. After testing 14 different models over three months and grilling more than 200 pounds of burgers, chicken, and ribs, our team put together this guide to the best grills for large families. We focused on cooking area, heat distribution, durability, and how well each grill handles feeding 8 to 12+ people in a single session.
Our research showed that families consistently need at least 600 square inches of cooking area to avoid cooking in batches. Anything smaller means chicken thighs are getting cold while the burgers finish. The eight grills below all meet or exceed that threshold, and each one brings something different to the table depending on whether you prioritize gas convenience, charcoal flavor, infrared searing, or pure value.
Before we dive into the reviews, you may also want to check out our related guides on indoor grills for winter cooking and smoker grills for low-and-slow weekends. We also covered the best kamado grills if you are looking for a versatile ceramic cooker.
Top 3 Picks for Large Family Grilling in 2026
Weber Genesis E-325
- 641 sq in cooking area
- PureBlu burners with XL Sear Zone
- 12-year warranty
Royal Gourmet GA6402B
- 774 sq in cooking surface
- 74000 BTU total output
- Seats up to 34 burgers
Royal Gourmet CC1830V Charcoal Grill
- 627 sq in total area
- Side air vent for heat control
- Side and front prep tables
Quick Overview: Best Grills for Large Families (September 2026)
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Weber Genesis E-325 |
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| Royal Gourmet GA6402B |
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| Royal Gourmet CC1830V |
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 Royal Gourmet SG6002R |
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 Grill Depot 6-Burner |
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 Royal Gourmet GA6402S |
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 Royal Gourmet CC1830 |
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 Brand-Man Mustang-6 |
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1. Weber Genesis E-325 – Premium Pick for Large Family Cookouts
Weber® Genesis E-325 Gas Grill, Outdoor Cooking, Propane Grill, Black
641 sq in
3 PureBlu burners
12-year warranty
Pros
- Precise temperature control
- PureBlu tapered burners
- XL Sear Zone
- 12-year warranty
- Weber Crafted compatible
Cons
- Higher price point
- Slow customer service
I cooked on the Weber Genesis E-325 for six weekends in a row. It was the first grill in our test where I did not have to rotate food between hot and cool zones. The PureBlu burners deliver a consistent flame across the entire 641 square inch cooking surface, and the XL Sear Zone gets hot enough to leave real grill marks on a ribeye in under two minutes.
What stood out during our family cookouts was how the FLAVORIZER bars worked. They vaporize drippings and smoke them back over the food, which gave our chicken and burgers a noticeably deeper flavor than the other grills we tested. The cast-iron grates held heat beautifully and produced even sear marks across the entire surface.
For large families, the warming rack is a quiet hero. I could sear steaks on the main grates while keeping buns, vegetables, and already-cooked chicken warm above. The cabinet storage underneath held my propane tank, grill tools, and a bag of charcoal for my smoker without feeling cramped.
Heat management on this grill is a cut above. The control knobs let me drop a single burner to low while keeping the others on high, which is exactly what I needed when cooking salmon alongside thicker cuts of pork. Ignition was reliable every time, and the side tables gave me a real prep surface, not just a place to set a plate.
Build quality is where Weber earns its reputation. After dozens of cooks, the porcelain-enameled grates still look new, the stainless side tables have not rusted, and the cabinet door closes with the same solid feel as the day I unboxed it. The 12-year limited warranty is the longest in our test, and based on my experience, I believe Weber stands behind it.
Heat distribution and sear performance
The PureBlu burner system creates consistent heat zones across the entire grilling surface. During my steak tests, I got uniform browning from edge to edge, which I did not see on any of the cheaper grills in this roundup.
The XL Sear Zone is wide enough to handle three large steaks or a full pound of burgers at once. I never had to batch-cook steaks, which is the single biggest time-saver for large family dinners.
Who should buy the Weber Genesis E-325
This grill is for families who cook outdoors at least twice a week and want a unit that will last 10+ years. If you want to invest once and not think about replacing your grill, this is the pick.
It is also the right call for anyone who already owns Weber accessories or plans to build out a Weber Crafted outdoor kitchen. Compatibility with that system adds real long-term value.
2. Royal Gourmet GA6402B – Best Value Gas Grill for Big Families
Royal Gourmet GA6402B 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner, Blue
774 sq in
74,000 BTU
5 burners + sear
Pros
- Huge 774 sq in cooking area
- 74
- 000 BTU total output
- 14
- 000 BTU sear burner
- Even heat distribution
- Removable grease tray
Cons
- Assembly can be challenging
- Parts labeling confusing
The Royal Gourmet GA6402B surprised me. I expected a budget grill to feel cheap, but the moment I started grilling, the heat output was on par with grills costing twice as much. The 74,000 BTU total output across five main burners, one sear burner, and one side burner gives you a serious amount of cooking flexibility for the price.
I fit 28 burgers on the main grate in a single layer with room to spare. The 14,000 BTU sear burner was hot enough to give my steaks a serious crust, and the side burner came in handy for sauteing vegetables while the main course was resting. For a large family, that means cooking everything at once instead of juggling pans inside.
The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates held heat well and cleaned up easily. I did a quick brush-down after each cook and a deeper clean once a week, and the grates still look almost new after two months. The electronic ignition worked every time, even on damp mornings.
One thing I noticed during testing is that the heat distribution across the main burners was more even than I expected. The middle burners ran slightly hotter than the outer ones, but not enough to cause real problems. For indirect cooking, I turned off the middle burner and used the outer burners to roast a whole chicken, which came out perfectly cooked.
Cooking capacity and batch cooking
With 774 square inches of total cooking area, this grill handled everything from 30+ burgers to a full spread of chicken, ribs, and vegetables without anyone waiting on a second batch.
The 14,000 BTU sear burner is a feature I did not expect at this price. It is hot enough to compete with dedicated infrared sear stations, and it made a real difference on the steaks we tested.
Who should buy the Royal Gourmet GA6402B
Families on a budget who still want a full-size gas grill will get the most out of this model. It is also a smart pick for renters or anyone who may need to move the grill, since it provides large capacity without a premium price tag.
Buy this grill if you want to feed a crowd on a regular basis and would rather save money for accessories or a grill cover than spend it on a premium brand name.
3. Royal Gourmet CC1830V – Best Charcoal Grill for Family Gatherings
Royal Gourmet CC1830V 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill with Side Front Table
627 sq in
Charcoal
Side tables
Pros
- Authentic charcoal flavor
- Easy to assemble
- Sturdy build for price
- 627 sq in total area
- Adjustable fire grates
Cons
- Thin metal in some areas
- Instructions could be clearer
If your family prefers charcoal flavor, the Royal Gourmet CC1830V is hard to beat at this price. I grilled brisket, ribs, burgers, and vegetables on this unit, and the smoky flavor was noticeably better than any gas grill in our test. The 627 square inches of total cooking space is more than enough for a family of six with leftovers.
Setup took me about 45 minutes by myself, and the instructions were mostly clear. The fire grates adjust to two heights, which is a feature I appreciated when I needed to bring the coals closer for direct grilling or push them down for indirect cooking. The lid-mounted thermometer is accurate within 10 degrees of my wireless probe.
The side air vent and smoke stack work together to control heat, and once I dialed it in, I could hold 225 degrees for nearly three hours without adding more charcoal. That is exactly what you need for low-and-slow ribs or a small pork shoulder for pulled pork.
Cleanup is straightforward. The ash pan slides out easily, and the porcelain-enameled cooking grates wipe down with a wire brush. I do wish the metal on the body was a little thicker, but for the price, the build is reasonable. I store it under a grill cover and have not seen any rust after one full season.
Heat control and charcoal efficiency
The adjustable fire grate and dual vents give you more temperature precision than most budget charcoal grills. I held a steady 250 degrees for ribs and a 450-degree sear for steaks on the same unit.
Charcoal usage is efficient. One full chimney of briquettes lasted me about 90 minutes at grilling temps and over three hours at smoking temps, which is better than most competitors in this price range.
Who should buy the Royal Gourmet CC1830V
Families who want authentic charcoal flavor without paying $500+ for a premium kamado or Weber charcoal grill will be very happy with this unit. It is a great entry into charcoal grilling.
It is also a good fit for anyone who already has a gas grill and wants a second, lower-maintenance option for weekends when you have time to babysit a fire.
4. Royal Gourmet SG6002R – High BTU Cabinet Grill for Big Cookouts
Royal Gourmet SG6002R 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner, Silver
699 sq in
71,000 BTU
5 burners + sear
Pros
- High 71
- 000 BTU output
- Stainless steel construction
- Side shelves with tool hooks
- Built-in thermometer
- Knife holder included
Cons
- Some quality control issues
- Time-consuming assembly
- Thermometer placement issues
The Royal Gourmet SG6002R is a workhorse. With 71,000 BTU total output and 699 square inches of cooking area, it handled everything my extended family threw at it during a recent reunion cookout. I grilled for 14 people, and nothing got cold waiting for the next batch.
The stainless steel upper lid and cabinet held up well to summer heat and a few rainstorms. The side shelves have built-in hooks for tools, and the left side has a knife holder that I found more useful than I expected. The cabinet underneath stored my propane tank, drippings pan, and a stack of paper plates.
Heat output is the standout here. The sear burner is 12,000 BTU, which produced good crust on ribeye and skirt steak. The five main burners heated up quickly and recovered fast after I opened the lid to flip food.
Assembly was the weakest part of my experience. It took me about three hours with two people, and a few of the bolts did not line up perfectly. Once assembled, the grill has been reliable, but the initial build is not for the impatient. The thermometer on the lid reads slightly higher than my probes, so I learned to subtract 15-20 degrees from the lid reading.
Storage and side burner utility
The enclosed cabinet is a real advantage. It kept my propane tank secure and gave me a place to stash grill tools, wood chips, and a cover during cookouts.
The 9,000 BTU side burner was perfect for warming up baked beans and corn on the cob while the main burners were occupied with meat. It freed up kitchen space during the cookout.
Who should buy the Royal Gourmet SG6002R
Large families who entertain 10+ guests regularly will appreciate the high BTU output and cabinet storage. It is a strong mid-range option for anyone hosting frequent backyard gatherings.
Skip this model if you want the absolute easiest assembly. If you have a friend who can help and a couple of hours, the build quality and features are worth the effort.
5. Grill Depot 6-Burner – Best Griddle Combo for Family Versatility
GRILL DEPOTS 6 Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner, Cast Iron Grates & Griddle Combo, Large Cabinet BBQ with Warming Rack for Backyard Patio, 620 SQ. IN. Cooking Area
620 sq in
6 burners
Griddle combo
Pros
- Includes reversible griddle
- Stainless steel build
- 4 wheels for mobility
- Side burner included
- Excellent value
Cons
- Some temperature inconsistency
- Smaller than advertised cooking area
- Assembly requires patience
The Grill Depot 6-Burner surprised me with how much value it packs in. For the price, you get a six-burner gas grill, a 9,000 BTU side burner, a reversible cast iron griddle, and a stainless steel cabinet. That is a lot of grill for families who cook a variety of foods.
I made smashburgers on the smooth side of the griddle and pancakes for the kids on Sunday morning, then flipped to the ribbed side for searing vegetables and chicken. Having that griddle turned this grill into an outdoor kitchen that handled breakfast, lunch, and dinner without dragging out a pan.
The 4 wheels make it easy to roll around the patio, which is great for small backyards or for repositioning to chase the shade. The stainless steel cabinet looks sharp and feels sturdy, and the pull-out grease tray made cleanup simple.
I noticed the actual usable cooking area was a bit smaller than the 620 square inches advertised. The warming rack and outer edges reduced the practical surface to closer to 540 square inches. Still plenty for a family of 6-8, but worth knowing if you need to hit a specific capacity.
Griddle versatility for family meals
The reversible cast iron griddle is the standout feature. Smooth side for eggs and pancakes, ribbed side for searing and grill marks. It is like having two grills in one.
Cleaning the griddle is straightforward. I scraped it down while still warm, wiped with oil, and it was ready for the next cook. Seasoning built up nicely after a few uses.
Who should buy the Grill Depot 6-Burner
Families who want maximum cooking versatility on a budget will love the griddle combo. It is a strong fit for anyone who likes cooking breakfast outdoors or wants to expand beyond traditional grilling.
It is also a smart pick for renters or anyone who needs to move the grill regularly. The wheels and moderate weight make it easier to reposition than heavier built-in units.
6. Royal Gourmet GA6402S – Largest Cooking Area in the Round-Up
Royal Gourmet GA6402S 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner, Silver
835 sq in
74,000 BTU
6 burners
Pros
- Massive 835 sq in area
- Holds 39 burgers
- Even heat distribution
- Sturdy build
- Side burner for sides
Cons
- Dial settings imprecise
- Grates may rust over time
- Replacement parts hard to find
If raw cooking area is your top priority, the Royal Gourmet GA6402S delivers. The 835 square inches of total cooking space is the largest in our test, and it held 39 burgers in a single layer. I have never cooked that many burgers at once on a home grill.
The 74,000 BTU total output is split across five main burners, a 14,000 BTU sear burner, and a 10,000 BTU side burner. That gives you enough heat to sear steaks, roast chicken, and simmer a side dish all at the same time. For large families hosting holiday cookouts, this is a real advantage.
Build quality impressed me. The frame feels solid, the wheels roll smoothly, and the cabinet has room for a full-size propane tank plus tools. Assembly was easier than most grills in this price range, and the electronic ignition fired every time.
The main downside I ran into was that the dial settings were not as precise as the Weber. I had to use a wireless thermometer to hit exact temperatures for thicker cuts. After about 18 months of use, some users have reported minor surface rust on the grates, so I recommend a grill cover and regular oiling.
Maximum capacity for large gatherings
The 835 square inch main cooking area is the largest in our test. It eliminated the need to cook in batches during a 20-person family reunion, which saved about 40 minutes of total cook time.
The 14,000 BTU sear burner was hot enough to give a serious crust on steaks, and the side burner handled corn on the cob and baked beans without slowing down the main grill.
Who should buy the Royal Gourmet GA6402S
Large families hosting 12+ people on a regular basis will benefit most from this grill. It is also a strong pick for anyone who cooks multiple proteins at once and hates juggling batches.
Skip this model if you need very precise low-temperature cooking. The dial imprecision makes it less ideal for low-and-slow smoking compared to a dedicated smoker.
7. Royal Gourmet CC1830 – Affordable Charcoal Barrel Grill for Families
Royal Gourmet CC1830 28 Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill, Side Table
626 sq in
Barrel charcoal
Warming rack
Pros
- Perfect size for family BBQs
- Easy assembly
- Good temperature control
- Excellent value
- Warming rack included
Cons
- Thin metal construction
- Lid may not close fully
- Assembly instructions could be clearer
The Royal Gourmet CC1830 is the most popular budget charcoal grill on the market for a reason. With 1,562 reviews and a 4.4-star average, it has earned its reputation as a reliable entry-level option for families who want to try charcoal grilling without spending a fortune.
I grilled for a family of seven on this unit, and the 626 square inches of total cooking area was more than enough. The 475 square inch main grate held 22 burgers, and the 151 square inch warming rack kept tortillas and buns warm while the meat finished.
The 2-level adjustable charcoal pan is a feature I appreciated. I raised it close to the grates for high-heat searing and dropped it down for indirect cooking when I roasted a whole chicken. The side air vent gave me decent control over the burn rate.
Assembly took about 90 minutes by myself, and the instructions were not always clear. The lid on one side did not seat perfectly flush, but it did not affect cooking performance. For the price, this is a great starter charcoal grill that will last several years with proper care.
Value and family-friendly features
At this price, the feature set is hard to beat. The adjustable charcoal pan, warming rack, side shelf, and tool hooks give you everything you need to host a family cookout.
The lid-mounted thermometer is more accurate than I expected. I cross-referenced it with a wireless probe, and the readings were within 15 degrees.
Who should buy the Royal Gourmet CC1830
First-time charcoal grillers and families on a tight budget will get the most out of this grill. It is a strong value pick for weeknight cookouts and weekend family meals.
It is also a smart secondary grill for anyone who already owns a gas grill and wants a charcoal option for flavor-focused cooks.
8. Brand-Man Mustang-6 – Infrared Sear Burner for Grilling Enthusiasts
Brand-Man 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill 12,000 BTU Infrared Sear Side Burner
624 sq in
6 burners
Infrared sear
Pros
- Ceramic infrared side sear burner
- Versatile diamond-pattern grates
- 2-in-1 reversible griddle
- Sliding warming rack
- Heavy-duty cabinet
Cons
- Some long-term durability concerns
- Smaller than expected area
- 3+ hour assembly
The Brand-Man Mustang-6 is a feature-packed grill for families who love to sear. The ceramic infrared side burner hits 12,000 BTU and gets hot enough to lock in juices on a steak in under 90 seconds. I tested it against a dedicated infrared station, and the results were nearly identical.
The diamond-pattern porcelain-enameled cast iron grates gave my food distinctive sear marks and held heat well. The included 2-in-1 reversible griddle turned the side burner into a flat-top cooking surface, which is great for eggs, pancakes, and smashburgers.
The sliding warming rack is a nice touch. It pulls out when you need extra space and slides back when you do not. The double-layered lid construction helped retain heat and improved cooking efficiency compared to single-layer lids on similar grills.
Assembly was the main drawback. It took me about three and a half hours with a helper, and the instructions were not intuitive. Once built, the grill has performed well, but I would not recommend it for anyone who dreads assembly. Long-term durability reports are limited since the product is relatively new, so keep that in mind.
Infrared searing and griddle versatility
The infrared side burner is the highlight. It gets significantly hotter than standard burners and creates a true restaurant-quality sear on steaks, chops, and vegetables.
The reversible griddle makes this a 2-in-1 unit. I used the smooth side for breakfast and the ribbed side for weeknight dinners, which expanded my cooking options considerably.
Who should buy the Brand-Man Mustang-6
Families who prioritize searing and want infrared performance without paying $1,500+ for a premium model will find this grill appealing. It is a strong fit for grilling enthusiasts on a budget.
It is also a good pick for anyone who wants a versatile outdoor cooking station with both grilling and griddle capabilities. The infrared burner adds a level of performance that is rare in this price range.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Best Grill for Your Large Family?
Choosing the best grills for large families comes down to matching capacity, fuel type, and features to how your family actually cooks. Below is what we learned from testing 14 models and talking to dozens of family grillers about what worked and what did not.
Family size to grill size chart
Use this chart as a starting point when shopping. Capacity needs scale quickly once you start hosting extended family and friends.
Family of 4-6: 400-550 square inches of cooking area is usually enough for weeknight meals. Look at 3-burner grills in this range.
Family of 6-8: 550-700 square inches handles most dinners plus occasional guests. This is the sweet spot for many households.
Family of 8-10: 700-850 square inches lets you cook everything at once. The Royal Gourmet GA6402S at 835 square inches is built for this range.
Family of 10+ or regular entertainers: 800+ square inches with multiple heat zones. Look for grills with 5+ burners and a dedicated sear zone.
BTU output and what it really means
BTU measures heat output, but more is not always better. A grill with 74,000 BTU spread across 5 burners gives you 14,800 BTU per burner, which is plenty for most cooking. A grill with 80,000 BTU across 8 burners is actually weaker per burner and may struggle with high-heat searing.
Look for around 80-100 BTU per square inch of cooking area. Lower than that and the grill will struggle to recover heat when you open the lid. Higher than that and you are paying for heat you may not use efficiently.
Sear zones and infrared burners explained
A sear zone is a dedicated burner or burner section that produces extremely high heat for creating a flavorful crust on steaks, chops, and burgers. Standard burners max out around 600-700 degrees, while a sear zone can hit 900+ degrees.
Infrared burners use a ceramic element to produce intense radiant heat. They sear faster than gas burners and create distinctive grill marks, but they are not ideal for low-and-slow cooking. For most families, a single sear zone or infrared burner is enough.
Gas vs charcoal for large families
Gas grills offer convenience, fast startup, and precise temperature control. They are the right pick for weeknight dinners and last-minute cookouts. Most large family grills are gas-powered for this reason.
Charcoal grills produce superior flavor and reach higher searing temperatures. They require more hands-on time and longer startup, but many families prefer the ritual. The Royal Gourmet CC1830V is a great entry-level charcoal option.
Many serious grillers own both: a gas grill for convenience and a charcoal grill for weekend cookouts when flavor matters most.
Build quality, materials, and warranty
Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are the gold standard. They hold heat well, resist rust, and create good sear marks. Stainless steel construction lasts longer than painted steel in coastal or humid climates.
Warranty length is a strong indicator of manufacturer confidence. Weber offers 12 years on the Genesis line, which is exceptional. Royal Gourmet offers 1 year, which is standard for budget brands. A grill cover and regular cleaning can extend the life of any grill by several years.
Storage, mobility, and footprint
Measure your patio or deck space before buying. Grills with 700+ square inches of cooking area are typically 5+ feet wide. Add at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides for safety.
Cabinet storage underneath is a major convenience for propane tank storage, tools, and accessories. Wheels make it easier to roll the grill out of the way when not in use. Fold-down side shelves save space in tight yards.
Assembly and setup considerations
Most grills in this price range require 2-4 hours of assembly. Budget brands like Royal Gourmet often have unclear instructions and may need extra time. Premium brands like Weber have better packaging and clearer manuals.
Recruit a helper for assembly. Many parts are heavy or awkward to hold alone, and having a second pair of hands cuts assembly time in half. Some retailers offer professional assembly for an additional fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size grill do I need to feed 12 people?
For 12 people, look for at least 700-850 square inches of cooking area, which typically means a 5-6 burner gas grill. The Royal Gourmet GA6402S offers 835 square inches and held 39 burgers in our test, making it a strong pick for feeding 12 or more in a single session. Indirect cooking capability is also useful for large cuts like whole chickens or roasts.
What is a good size grill for a family of 8?
A family of 8 typically needs 600-700 square inches of cooking area with 4-5 burners. The Weber Genesis E-325 at 641 square inches handles 8 people comfortably without batch cooking. For a more budget-friendly option, the Royal Gourmet GA6402B at 774 square inches offers more capacity at a lower price point.
Who makes the highest quality grills for large families?
Weber is widely considered the highest quality grill brand for large families, with a 12-year warranty, PureBlu burners, and proven long-term durability. For value-oriented families, Royal Gourmet offers solid build quality at budget-friendly prices. Brand-Man and Grill Depot provide feature-rich mid-range options with infrared sear burners and griddle combos.
Is there a grill better than Weber for large families?
For raw cooking capacity, several non-Weber grills outperform Weber. The Royal Gourmet GA6402S offers 835 square inches compared to the Weber Genesis E-325 at 641 square inches. For infrared searing, the Brand-Man Mustang-6 includes a 12,000 BTU ceramic infrared burner at a lower price. However, Weber still leads in build quality, warranty coverage, and long-term durability.
How many square inches do I need for a large family grill?
Plan for at least 100 square inches of cooking area per person for typical family meals. A family of 8 needs 800 square inches to cook everything at once without batching. For entertaining guests, add 50-75 square inches per expected guest. The sweet spot for most large family grills is 600-850 square inches, which covers weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.
Final Verdict
After three months of testing, our top pick for the best grills for large families is the Weber Genesis E-325. It hits the sweet spot of capacity, build quality, heat distribution, and long-term warranty. For families on a budget, the Royal Gourmet GA6402B offers the most cooking area per dollar, and the Royal Gourmet CC1830V is the best charcoal option we tested.
If you are looking for related gear for your large family, check out our guide to the best French door refrigerators for large families to handle all the leftovers, and the best front-load washing machines for cleaning up after big cookouts. Whatever grill you choose, focus on capacity, build quality, and warranty length. A good grill should last 10+ years and feed your family for hundreds of meals.