The Ultimate Guide to Finding Your Perfect Grill (Different Types of Grills & Their Uses)

Every season is a grilling season… so I say!

If you are like me, you probably daydream about those sizzling steaks, crusty and juicy chicken breasts, and perfectly charred veggies going down with a cold drink in the summer. In the cold season, you can imagine warming yourself from the grill’s heat as you grill hotdogs. But… first things first. What kind of grill do you use? If you are reading this article, you are probably disappointed with your current grill and are looking to switch your loyalty to something better. You could also be a beginner seeking to know what to look for in a great grill. Or a fellow enthusiast trying to keep yourself updated.

Whatever rocks your boat, I got you covered. In this post, I will break down different types of grills, their special features, pros and cons, and why you might (or might not) want to bring one home. It can get overwhelming when you think of the options available So, grab a cold drink and let’s get grilling!

1. Charcoal Grill

The charcoal grill is the granddaddy of all grills—a classic choice for those who appreciate the art of grilling. Charcoal grills are fueled by charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal, which gives food that unmistakable smoky flavor.

They come in various shapes and sizes, from small portable models to large, sturdy kettles. The iconic Weber Original Kettleis a perfect example of a traditional charcoal grill.

Features of charcoal grills

Uses charcoal as the primary heat source.
Provides that classic smoky flavor.
Portable and relatively inexpensive.

Pros of charcoal grills

Deliver rich, smoky flavor that’s hard to beat
Simple design with fewer moving parts to worry about
Great for high-heat searing

Cons of charcoal grills

Take time to heat up (20-30 minutes)
Require consistent monitoring to maintain temperature
Clean-up can be messy with ash disposal

Why you should buy a charcoal grill

If you love the deep, smoky flavor and do not mind putting in a little extra effort for that perfect sear, a charcoal grill is a great choice. It is also ideal for purists who enjoy the traditional grilling experience.

Why you should avoid buying a charcoal grill

If you are looking for convenience and quick cooking, a charcoal grill might not be for you. The lengthy prep time and cleanup could be a deal breaker.

Tip: Use a chimney starter for quick and even lighting of the charcoal.

2. Gas Grill

Gas grills offer convenience and speed. Fueled by propane or natural gas, they heat up quickly and offer precise temperature control, making them a popular choice for busy families or anyone who wants to grill on a whim.

They range from basic, budget-friendly models to high-end grills with all the bells and whistles. The Weber Spirit IIand the Napoleon Rogue are examples of popular gas grills.

Features of a gas grill

Powered by propane or natural gas
Quick to heat up with adjustable temperature control
Wide range of sizes and features, from basic to high-end models

Pros of a gas grill

Convenient and easy to use—ready to cook in minutes
Consistent heat with precise temperature control
Usually equipped with multiple burners, side shelves, and even rotisserie options

Cons of a gas grill

Can be more expensive than charcoal grills
Does not impart the same smoky flavor as charcoal or wood
Propane tanks need refilling, and natural gas lines limit mobility

Why you should buy a gas grill

If you value convenience, speed, and versatility, a gas grill is perfect. It is great for busy weeknight dinners or when you are hosting a big backyard BBQ.

Why you should avoid buying a gas grill

A gas grill does not give you the deep, smoky flavor you might get from a charcoal grill. The initial cost can be high, especially for premium models.

Tip: Keep an extra propane tank on hand to avoid running out of fuel mid-cookout.

3. Electric Grill

Electric grills are the go-to choice for those living in apartments or areas where open flames are restricted. These grills are powered by electricity, which means no charcoal, gas, or smoke—just plug it in and start grilling. They’re often compact and can be used indoors or on a small balcony. The George Foreman Grill is a well-known example of an electric grill that has become a household name.

Features of an electric grill

Often compact and suitable for indoor use
Some models come with temperature control features

Pros of using an electric grill

Super convenient—just plug in and start grilling
No need for fuel or dealing with smoke
Its compact size makes it ideal for apartments or small patios

Cons of using an electric grill

Lacks that authentic grilled flavor and aura (no smoke)
Limited to areas with electrical connection and outlets
Generally less powerful than gas or charcoal grills

Why You Should Buy an Electric Grill

An electric grill is a great buy for people living in apartments of where traditional grilling is not allowed. It is also perfect for people who prefer a hassle-free grilling experience.

Why you should avoid buying an electric grill

If flavor is a top priority, you might be disappointed with an electric grill. It is also not the best for large gatherings since it is typically smaller and less powerful.

Tip: Preheat the grill fully before cooking to get the best possible sear

4. Wood Pellet Grill

Pellet grills are a favorite among BBQ enthusiasts who want the best of both worlds—grilling and smoking. These grills use wood pellets as fuel, providing a rich, smoky flavor to your food. They are equipped with digital temperature controls, making them easy to use even for beginners.

The Traeger Pro Seriesis one of the most popular pellet grills on the market, known for its versatility and ease of use.

Features of a wood pellet grill

Uses wood pellets as fuel, combining grilling with smoking
Digital temperature controls for precise cooking
Infuses food with a rich, smoky flavor

Pros of a wood pellet grill

Versatile—great for grilling, smoking, roasting, and even baking
Easy to use with set-and-forget controls
Provides a deep, wood-smoked flavor

Cons of a wood pellet grill

Expensive, compared to other grill types
Pellets can be hard to find, depending on your location

Why you should buy a wood pellet grill

If you are a serious BBQ enthusiast who loves slow cooking and smoking meats, a pellet grill is a fantastic investment. It delivers delightful flavor in torrents.

Why you should avoid buying a wood pellet grill

If you are on a budget or do not have easy access to wood pellets, you might want to consider other options. It is also not the best for quick grilling sessions.

Tip: Store your pellets in a dry place to avoid moisture affecting their performance

5. Kamado Grill

Kamado grills are ceramic grills inspired by ancient Japanese cooking methods. Kamado grills are known for their superior heat retention and versatility—they can grill, smoke, roast, and even bake.

Their egg-shaped design is not just for aesthetics – it helps with air circulation and even cooking. The Big Green Egg is perhaps the most famous Kamado grill.

Features of a Kamado Grill

Ceramic construction for excellent heat retention
Can be used for grilling, smoking, baking, and even roasting
Egg-shaped, which helps with air circulation

Pros of a Kamado Grill

Exceptional heat retention and distribution
Versatile—handles a wide range of cooking styles
Durable if given proper care

Cons of a Kamado Grill

Heavy
Can be expensive, especially for premium brands
There is a learning curve to master temperature control

Why You Should Buy a Kamado Grill

If you love experimenting with different cooking techniques, a Kamado grill is a worthy investment. Its versatility is unmatched.

Why You Should Avoid Buying a Kamado Grill

If portability or budget is a concern, you might find a Kamado grill limiting. It is not the best option for beginners.

Tip: Use natural lump charcoal for the best results, as it burns cleaner and hotter

6. Smoker Grill

Smoker grills are for people who take their BBQ adventures seriously. These grills cook food at low temperatures over a long period, allowing the smoke to infuse deep into the meat, giving it that rich, mouth-watering flavor. Smokers come in various types, including charcoal, gas, electric, and pellet.

The Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smokeris a popular option for those who want an easy-to-use smoker.

Features of a smoker grill

Designed for low-and-slow cooking to infuse a deep smoky flavor
Comes in various fuel types: charcoal, gas, electric, or pellet
Often features a separate firebox for indirect cooking

Pros of a smoker grill

Ideal for smoking meats to perfection
Produces a deep, rich flavor
Some models offer dual functionality for smoking and grilling

Cons of a smoker grill

Time-consuming—smoking can take several hours
Requires a bit of skill to maintain the proper temperature
Bulky

Why you should buy a Smoker grill

If you are a fan of authentic BBQ with that mouth-watering smoky flavor, a smoker grill is a must-have. It is perfect for weekend BBQs and special occasions.

Why you should avoid buying a smoker grill

If you do not have the time or patience for slow cooking, or if you have limited space, a smoker might not be the best fit.

Tip: Keep the smoker’s vents open for better airflow and temperature control

7. Infrared Grill

Infrared grills are relatively new to the market but have quickly gained popularity because they cook food evenly and quickly. These grills use infrared technology to heat food, reducing flare-ups and providing intense, direct heat.

They are excellent for searing meats, giving you that perfect steakhouse quality. The Char-Broil TRU-Infrared is a well-known infrared grill that has received rave reviews.

Features of an infrared grill

Uses infrared technology to generate intense heat
Heats up very quickly and sears food beautifully
Reduces flare-ups and uneven cooking

Pros of an infrared grill

Extremely fast cooking—great for searing steaks
Even heat distribution
Less drying out of food compared to other grills

Cons of an infrared grill

Can be more expensive than traditional grills
Limited versatility—not great for slow cooking or smoking
Takes some getting used to if you’ve never used one before

Why You Should Buy an infrared grill

If you are all about perfectly seared steaks and quick cooking times, an infrared grill is a game-changer. It is also great for reducing flare-ups.

Why you should avoid buying an infrared grill

Not a great choice for people seeking a versatile grill that can handle everything from smoking to slow-roasting

Tip:Preheat your grill for at least 5 minutes to ensure even heat distribution

8. Rotisserie Grill

A rotisserie grill is a specialized type of grill that comes with a rotating spit, perfect for roasting whole chickens, turkeys, or large cuts of meat. This setup allows the meat to cook evenly while basting itself, resulting in juicy, flavorful dishes. R

Rotisserie kits are often add-ons to gas or charcoal grills, but some high-end models like the Napoleon Prestigecome with built-in rotisserie systems.

Features of a Rotisserie grill

Equipped with a rotating spit for even cooking
Great for roasting whole chickens, turkeys, and large cuts of meat
Often an add-on feature to gas or charcoal grills

Pros of a Rotisserie grill

Provides consistent, even cooking—perfect for large meats
Self-basting keeps food juicy and flavorful

Cons of a Rotisserie grill

Bulky
It requires a bit of practice to perfect
Not as versatile as other grill types

Why You Should Buy a Rotisserie Grill

If you love hosting dinner parties or want to take your grilling to the next level with perfectly roasted meats, a rotisserie grill is a fantastic addition.

Why you should avoid buying a Rotisserie grill

If space is limited or you are not into cooking large cuts of meat, a rotisserie might not be necessary for your grilling setup.

Tip: Balance the meat properly on the spit to ensure even cooking

Recap

When it comes to grilling, the options are as diverse as the flavors you can create. Each type of grill offers something unique, catering to different cooking styles, preferences, and lifestyles. Whether you are a traditionalist who loves the deep, smoky flavors of a charcoal grill or prioritizes convenience with a gas grill, there is a perfect match out there for everyone.

Electric grills offer a smoke-free, easy-to-use option for those in restricted spaces, while pellet grills are ideal for BBQ enthusiasts who want to experiment with different wood flavors. Kamado grills stand out for their versatility and superior heat retention, making them a favorite among serious grillers. Portable grills cater to adventurous souls who love to grill on the go, and smoker grills are a must-have for anyone who enjoys the rich, slow-cooked flavor of smoked meats.

Infrared grills bring the future of grilling into your backyard with their high heat and quick cooking times, perfect for those who love a good sear. The rotisserie grill is the star of any backyard BBQ, turning out perfectly roasted meats that are sure to impress.

Each grill type comes with its own set of strengths and considerations, so it is important to think about what matters most to you—whether it brings out the flavors you need, convenience, versatility, or portability. The best grill is the one that suits your needs and helps you create delicious, memorable meals.

So, fire up the grill of your choice, invite some friends over, and enjoy the smoky, savory goodness that only a well-cooked meal can bring. Happy grilling!