Quick Links
- 1 Why a Gas Grill?
- 2 What You Need To Look For When Choosing One?
- 3 Grill Size
- 4 Flame Tamers
- 5 Cooking Grids
- 6 Ease Of Cleaning
- 7 Ignition Type
- 8 Burner Type and Quality
- 9 Reviews of The 5 Best Gas Grills Under $200
- 10 1. RevoAce GBC1747WPF-U
- 11 2. Megamaster 720-0982
- 12 3. Char-Broil Classic 360
- 13 4. Landmann Falcon 2
- 14 5. Thermos 265
- 15 Conclusion
- 16 Related Articles
Moreover, our in-depth buyer guides should help you spend your hard-earned cash on the stuff that will give you the best value and functionality.
Our previous two guides focused on mid-range to the high-end category, now, in this one, we’re going to delve into some of the best gas grills under $200.
To give you an idea of what to expect, most of the equipment within this price range should still offer outstanding performance. However, there are caveats to consider.
Most of these models might be best suited as a portable or tabletop option, there should be others that have adjustable telescopic stands. Those that fall under this category are intended for easy storage and will mostly have a smaller footprint than regular-sized alternatives.
On the other hand, if you know what to look for, there are good quality freestanding gas grills that should hover close to the target cost.
Why a Gas Grill?
When it comes to grilling food, consumers have several options to pick from. Traditionalists will swear by the use of wood or charcoal grills to infuse a deep smoky flavor to your meals. If it’s flameless convenience you are after, then an electric model should be ideal.
The next best thing is a gas grill that strikes a balance of being beginner-friendly and versatile.
If you are planning to move the equipment around for storage or whatever reason, then a freestanding propane model would be fine. On the other hand, if consumers want to use their home’s fuel supply line, natural gas models are likewise available for purchase.
Another convenient feature found on most modern gas grills is the conversion kit. This allows owners to quickly switch between propane or natural gas, which is another handy feature that buyers should look for.
What You Need To Look For When Choosing One?
Let’s start off with a brief overview of what makes a great gas grill. Perhaps the first feature that should be on the top of your list is durability. Remember, this cooking equipment will be exposed to a lot of heat from the burners or from direct sunlight (depending on where you leave it when it’s not in use).
Since we are working with a budget limit that sits below $200, we should set expectations properly. Most expensive grills are constructed out of high-quality stainless steel, but for a more affordable price, manufacturers can substitute other heat-resistant material that will not likely corrode when exposed to moisture and other liquids.
To make it easier to identify which ones will last longer than average offerings, be sure to check the manufacturer’s warranty details. Good ones come with coverage for most of the components and sometimes throw in free assembly and service if the gas grill fails to function.
Overall you would want a product that will last for a long time. Furthermore, the grilling performance should remain consistent throughout its lifespan. These should give you the best value for your money.
Grill Size
For the price range, we are working with, most consumers would expect to find models that are more compact and possibly portable. Nevertheless, it will surprise you that for that amount of money, there are awesome full-sized and freestanding gas grills to be found. This is where we come in to choose some of the best ones and pick out a winner
Another option is to sacrifice the size in favor of superior quality in a smaller package. These ones are usually tabletop versions of their more premium cousins. However, as long it is packed with features and promises reliable grilling performance, we would gladly pick these over freestanding models.
Meanwhile, what contributes to the size of some gas grills are the side shelves. These can be fixed or folding but should be sturdy enough to support other gear for meal preparation. Having tools hooks are also a big plus for added convenience when the product is in use.
Flame Tamers
Most consumers make the mistake of looking at the BTU rating only when shopping for their gas grills. You should be aware that the hotter the gas grill can get the higher the chances of flare-ups. Therefore, those equipped with flame tamers should be prioritized over others that do not have it at all. Flare
Since these components are normally installed in between the grilling surface and just above the burners, it will be exposed to a lot of heat from below and liquids that drip from the grates. Be vigilant in checking the type of metal used, but some brands might have other materials such as ceramics that boast excellent resistance to heat.
Another function it adds to your grilling experience is heat distribution and vaporization of juices and drippings from the food on the cooking surface. Liquids that make contact with the flame tamers are almost immediately vaporized to rise up and infuse more flavor and a distinct smoked aroma to your meals.
Cooking Grids
As with any grill of various types, the grill grates or cooking grids as others call it are responsible for giving you those appetizing grill marks. Be sure to avoid gas grills that are using thin wires with wide spaces in between the grates.
This will increase the likelihood of food falling into the firebox. Additionally, do not expect to see visible grill marks from caramelization due to the smaller surface area in contact with the items on top of the cooking grids.
Quality models either come with thick stainless-steel grids or cast iron with ceramic coatings. These can give you bolder markings and provide superior heat retention to cook through most ingredients. As an added bonus, warming racks provide an additional area to keep cooked food in ideal serving temperatures without burning.
Ease Of Cleaning
While it is an enjoyable experience when using a gas grill, we have to live with the fact that the aftermath will require some elbow grease. The caramelization on the cooking grids, flame tamers, and firebox will need to be cleaned.
A wire brush should do the trick but the metal and surface should be able to withstand the scrubbing as well.
If left unattended all the grime and debris that fall down can damage the cooking equipment in the long run. Hence, most brands make it easy to take remove the cooking grids, flame tamers, and lid. Excess liquids that do not vaporize completely are collected in the drip pan below.
Ignition Type
We’ve come a long way when it comes to starting a fire for cooking. It used to be that matches, kindling, and other flammable items were the go-to options to ignite a gas grill. But guess what, modern gas grills are equipped with varying ignition systems that do not require old-school methods anymore.
The most common type you’ll encounter when browsing for your next grilling equipment is the piezoelectric starter. Depending on the manufacturer, it could be integrated into the knob-turn motion or as a separate push-button. Unfortunately, it might take a few tries to get the flames going.
Another ignition system that is more widespread nowadays is the electronic igniter, which much like the above-mentioned type uses an electric spark to light the fire. Nonetheless, the success rate of this version is higher than the first one we illustrated. The only downside is that it uses a battery, which will need replacement later on as the loses its charge. This is normally activated with a push-button.
The next one is what is called a flame-thrower ignition system. What makes it unique is that it uses a mechanism that shoots a stream of gas which is then ignited by a piezoelectric module to shoot a stream of flame to start the burners. This system is also normally integrated into the knob-turn motion of the gas grill.
It should be noted that all of these ignition systems will eventually fail. Manufacturers can supply a replacement but if you need to use your gas grill with a damaged ignition, a flash tube will come in handy, as suggested by experts. This backup system allows owners to light the burners from the cooking grid level for added safety and convenience.
Burner Type and Quality
Burners are the heart of a gas grill and are the components that are often taken for granted since it sits all the way below the firebox. The cooking grids and flame tamers keep it out of sight most of the time, but if you take these out for cleaning, you will have access to this key section of the assembly.
Since these are subjected to all manners of abuse, poorly made gas grills will eventually require their burners to be replaced. However, with proper maintenance, it can last longer than normal. Budget-friendly models often use thin stainless-steel tubes that are can easily get damaged, while more expensive ones use thicker cast variants.
The more burners available on a grill means more temperature zones for controlled cooking. Some brands have infrared searing burners below, on the side shelf, and sometimes mounted at the rear section of the cooking grid for use with a rotisserie system. Pay attention to the BTU rating to give you an idea as to how much heat a burner can deliver.
Reviews of The 5 Best Gas Grills Under $200
1. RevoAce GBC1747WPF-U
Pros:
- Four 12,000-BTU burners in the main grilling area
- Bottle opener on left side shelf
- 12,000-BTU stainless steel side burner on the right shelf
- Tool hooks
- Porcelain flame tamers
Cons:
- Piezoelectric ignition system
- Open-cart design
- Short warranty coverage
This gas grill is another bang-for-your-buck model with more than enough features to host a cookout party with a large group of friends. It comes with four stainless steel burners in the firebox. Each one can output up to 12,000 BTU for a total of 48,000 BTU. Protecting the burners from debris and drippings are four ceramic flame tamers that distribute heat across the cooking grids.
The piezoelectric ignition system is already integrated into the knob-turn motion. However, it might take a few tries before you can light the flames. RevoAce gives you 660 square inches of grill space – 480 square inches for the primary cooking section with a 180-square-inch warming rack as well. Materials of choice are porcelain-coated cast iron and porcelain-coated steel respectively.
The side shelf on the right is also home to a 12,000-BTU stainless steel side burner with a cover that sits flush when closed. Along with the left side shelf and control panel, these are crafted out black powder-coated steel for added dependability. Meanwhile, the control knobs are nickel-plated with rubber surfaces.
Additionally, if you look closely, you will spot an integrated bottle opener on the left flank attached to the side shelf. This is perfect for opening a bottle of brew while manning the grill. Therefore, it would be strategic to keep the cooler close so you can serve grilled goodies along with a frosty beverage. Not to mention there are tool hooks available to hold your trusted grilling accessories.
This freestanding grill boasts an open-cart assembly with a propane tank holder down below. The base hosts two plastic casters for mobility and a pewter-steel combination front panel. RevoAce offers a 1-year limited warranty for the GBC1747WPF-U, which seems reasonable for its asking price. Fully assembled, the gas grill measures 46.4 inches high, 54.4 inches wide, and 24.3 inches deep.
For those on a tight budget, this is a feature-packed model that you might want to keep in mind. Depending on what you need, this offers satisfactory performance, a large cooking space, and a cost-effective price. This already seems like a winner in our opinion, but there are two more to consider.
2. Megamaster 720-0982
Pros:
- 5 burners
- Huge grilling space
- Oversized side shelves
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Short warranty coverage
- No tool hooks
- Open cart design
- No tool hooks
- Questionable durability
We are blown away to encounter a gas grill of this size that also barely meets the $200 budget limited we have imposed for this guide. Megamaster appears geared to impress consumers who are shopping for an affordable option that still comes with enough features to stand toe to toe with more pricier models.
This freestanding gas grill is equipped with a total of five burners estimated at 10,000 BTU each, which generates a total of 50,000 BTU. Providing a generous primary cooking area measuring 474 square inches and sporting a 182-square inch warming rack, owners will be enjoying a total of 656 square inches of grilling space.
Seasoned grill masters will love the five temperature zones for superior versatility to cook various ingredients at the same time. The electronic ignition should make startups a breeze. The main cooking grids are fashioned from cast iron coated with matte porcelain enamel for added durability. The grates measure 7 mm which is thick enough for excellent heat retention and bold grill marks
Megamaster was generous enough to include two oversized fixed side shelves to give owners additional space for food preparation and more. The 720-0982 is presented with an open cart design with two heavy-duty wheels, a propane tank mounting point, and a safety lock to keep the fuel source secure.
The manufacturer did not specify the material used for the assembly, but it appears robust enough to withstand wear with proper care. The warranty provided by the manufacturer seems to fit the price, which should give buyers an idea as to how it will hold up over the years
3. Char-Broil Classic 360
Pros:
- Porcelain-coated stainless-steel flame tamers
- Side shelves
- Propane tank mounting point
- Swing-away warming rack
Cons:
- No lid-mounted thermometer
- Piezoelectric ignition system
- Open-cart design exposes propane tank to the elements
- Painted steel side shelves are not as durable as stainless steel
- No tool hooks
Among all of the gas grills we have reviewed thus far, finding a Char-Broil model that meets the $200 budget is exciting. However, as much as the brand is renowned for its quality and performance, we have to stack it up against the rest to see if it measures up. Thus, let’s see if the Classic 360 will earn the right to be our top pick for this guide.
Once again, the name is connected with its specifications in particular to the 360-square inch primary cooking surface. However, the swing-away warming rack adds another 170 square inches to give owners 530 square inches to work with in total. Both the main cooking grid and warming rack porcelain-coated to prevent corrosion.
The firebox and lid are likewise coated with porcelain enamel to withstand the heat from its three stainless-steel in-line burners that generate up to 30,000 BTUs. Porcelain-coated stainless-steel flame tamers reduce flare-ups and keep food moist by vaporizing liquids that drip down its surfaces. The ignition system is a piezoelectric type that is activated with a push-button.
Measuring 43.5 inches high, 51.2-inches wide, and 24.1-inches deep with a weight of 55.47 pounds, the Classic 360 is a freestanding gas grill that is great for newbies. The side shelves are painted steel and offer additional prep space for the user.
Supporting the assembly are two 6-inch wheels and two stationary legs to make up for the lack of a locking system on the casters. There’s also a mounting point for the propane tank of the lower-left section of the stands just above the wheels.
Unlike the other gas grills that we have scrutinized above, Char-Broil did not include a lid-mounted thermometer on this model. While it is not really a deal-breaker, some users might find it an inconvenience when checking the temperature when the cover is closed.
4. Landmann Falcon 2
Pros:
- Stainless-steel construction with powder-coated steel elements
- Lighter weight and casters improve mobility
- Folding side shelves to save space and easy storage
- Enclosed propane tank cabinet
- Grill cover included in the package
Cons:
- Two burners only
- No side burners
- No locking mechanism on wheels
- Short warranty coverage
- No tool hooks
Standing 46 inches high with a 48-inch width and 23-inch depth, the Landmann Falcon 2 another affordable freestanding gas grill that consumers should consider. Visually, this model is actually stylish with its stainless-steel finish with black elements. Although it is not specifically indicated, the powder-coated steel parts could be prone to corrosion if left exposed to the elements.
There are two tubular 304 stainless-steel burners that are hooked to an electronic ignition system. Each is rated at 15,000 BTU for a total of 30,000-BTU grilling power at your disposal. The control knobs are feature rubber grips for reliable operation even with greasy hands, which is quite normal when you are manning the grill.
The Falcon 2 comes with stainless-steel cooking grids with a total grilling area of 479 square inches. The primary section measures 343 square inches, while the warming rack is at 136 inches. Overall this gas grill should be enough to prepare meals for a small group of people who don’t mind waiting for their turn to be served.
We also like that the side shelves can fold down to save space during storage. The lid features a highly visible mounted thermometer set on a beveled surface to quickly monitor if the interior temperature is exactly as the recipe requires. Grease and other liquids that drip down are collected into an easy-access removable tray for quick disposal and effortless cleanup.
Landmann understands the need for proper storage for the propane tank and mounted the firebox on top of the black powder-coated cabinet with a stainless-steel door and a large ergonomic handle. There’s just enough to accommodate the fuel tank but owners should be able to fit in some smaller tools and equipment with ease.
Weighing in at 95 pounds, the Falcon 2 is not as heavy as other gas grills of its size, which should make it easier to move around with the plastic casters. Just be aware that there are no locking mechanisms on the wheels so it might move around during use.
5. Thermos 265
Pros:
- Lightweight at 35 pounds
- Tool hooks
- Casters for mobility
- Compact for quick storage
Cons:
- Plastic lid handle and side shelves
- Open-cart design
- Piezoelectric ignition system
- Porcelain-coated steel construction
- Warranty coverage is underwhelming
Now, it is time that we look into something a little more compact. Thermos is probably the last brand to come into mind when talking about gas grills. The company is primarily recognized for its top-notch insulated containers, but it seems to have branched out to cooking equipment such as the 265, which we will feature in this guide.
We found it clever that the company opted to call its product 265, which we found out is the exact number of square inches of the primary grilling surface. The specifications listed by the manufacturer prove that this model is designed to be lightweight with a smaller footprint than other entry-level freestanding selections.
The Thermos 265 stands 41.5-inches high with a length listed at 49 inches and a depth of 21.9 inches. Fully assembled, the whole thing weighs a feathery 35 pounds, which makes it practically effortless to transport. The two casters improve mobility, while the other two legs will keep it in place in the absence of wheel locks.
Its two burners are tied to a piezoelectric ignition system. However, instead of activating via the knob-turn motion, it relies on a push-button igniter. Just like other gas grills that have it, don’t be surprised if it does not start up on the first try.
The lid and firebox are made out of porcelain-coated steel which is susceptible to corrosion and will degrade over time due to the elements and the heat generated by the grill itself. Speaking of heat, this is armed with two stainless steel burners – each rated at 13,250 BTUs. Combined, you’re looking at 26,500 BTUs, which is moderate, but enough for its cooking capacity.
The lid handle and side shelves are made of heat-resistant plastic, which is not as durable as metal. It’s easy to miss, but the side-mounted surfaces also have tool hooks. This is evidently how Thermos was able to drop the weight down. Finally, the cart-style form factor allows the owner to mount the propane tank on the support bracket below.
Conclusion
Given the price point we had to work with, it was a challenge to find the best gas grills under $200. Nevertheless, after our extensive search, we were finally able to narrow down the contender into the give models we have detailed above.
As with the previous guides we have published related to this type of cooking equipment, the biggest factor for our selection all boils down to the value it offers consumers for the price.
Therefore, we are crowing the RevoAce GBC1747WPF-U as the clear winner. What made us choose this model is the sheer number of features that are bundled in the package. We love that it features four 12,000-BTU burners in the primary grilling area, plus the 12,000-BTU side burner of the side shelf to the right.
The integrates bottle opener on the left side shelf was also a nice touch. Furthermore, both side shelves also came with tool hooks. Porcelain flame tamers are also a great addition for heat distribution and vaporization. While the warranty coverage is on the short side, regular cleanup and maintenance should keep it in working order longer.