10 Best Grills 2026 in the United States

The Blackstone 1883 Original 28” Griddle is a solid choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts who prefer a gas-powered grill. With a cooking area of 524 square inches, it offers a generous space to prepare meals for a family or small gathering. The griddle is equipped with two H-style burners producing a combined 34,000 BTUs, ensuring even heat distribution and efficient cooking.

The included hood is a thoughtful addition, protecting the griddle from the elements and potentially extending its lifespan. The solid steel griddle top and powder-coated steel construction contribute to its durability and robustness. The two independent cooking zones with built-in igniters provide flexibility in meal preparation, allowing you to cook different foods at different temperatures simultaneously.

However, at 94.8 pounds, the griddle is quite heavy, which might make it less portable and challenging to move around. Another potential drawback is that it doesn't include additional features like side burners or storage space, which some users might find beneficial. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Blackstone 1883 offers excellent performance, durability, and sufficient cooking space for most outdoor cooking needs.

The Traeger Woodridge Elite is a large wood pellet grill designed for those who want authentic wood-fired flavor with modern convenience. It uses wood pellets as fuel, which give food a smoky taste that's hard to match with gas or charcoal grills. The generous 970 square inches of cooking space can easily handle big meals, making it ideal for family gatherings or parties. The grill's insulated body helps keep the heat steady even in colder weather, which means consistent cooking results year-round.

One standout feature is the side sear station, which provides high heat for quick searing, adding versatility if you want to cook steaks or vegetables alongside smoked dishes. Temperature control is smart and easy thanks to WiFIRE technology, allowing you to monitor and adjust settings remotely via an app — a handy tool if you want to multitask. The grill also supports Bluetooth meat thermometers and offers convenient modes like 'Keep Warm.' Made from powder-coated steel with an enclosed cabinet, the build quality feels solid and durable.

This grill is quite heavy (over 220 pounds) and requires assembly, which might be challenging for some users. Also, while the pellet fuel offers great flavor, it can be more expensive and less available than propane or charcoal. The price point and advanced features target serious grillers who want a mix of traditional taste and tech convenience, rather than casual users looking for a simple grill. For those who value large capacity, wood-fired flavor, and smart controls, this model is a strong choice. However, beginners or those looking for a lightweight portable grill might find it less suitable.

The Kamado Joe Big Joe Series III is a high-end ceramic charcoal grill and smoker designed for serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts. It uses charcoal as fuel, which offers authentic smoky flavors and excellent heat retention thanks to its thick ceramic construction. With a generous 450 square inches of cooking space spread across three adjustable racks, it lets you cook multiple dishes at once, perfect for gatherings or varied meals. The innovative SlōRoller insert improves smoke and heat circulation, helping food cook evenly and absorb more flavor, which is a big plus for smoking meats.

Temperature control is precise, thanks to the patented Kontrol Tower top vent that allows easy adjustment of airflow from low smoking temps around 225°F up to searing highs near 750°F. The air lift hinge reduces the dome's weight, making it easier to open and close without strain. The grill sits on a sturdy steel cart with locking wheels for stability and mobility. While the grill is quite heavy (445 pounds) and requires assembly, its build quality is durable and designed for outdoor use.

The price point and weight may be a downside if you want something more portable or budget-friendly. This grill is best suited for those who want a versatile, long-lasting cooker for both grilling and smoking, and who value advanced features that improve cooking results and ease of use.