Families shopping for an outdoor grill face a familiar tradeoff: charcoal flavor versus gas convenience, big cooking capacity versus a manageable footprint, and safety features versus raw power. After comparing 15 popular models on cooking space, ease of cleanup, and how forgiving they are around kids, the Royal Gourmet GA6402B 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill stands out as the best overall pick thanks to its huge 6-burner capacity and side burner for side dishes. If budget leads your decision, the Royal Gourmet PD1305H griddle combo delivers remarkable versatility for the price, while the Cuisinart Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill is the safest, simplest entry point for grilling with children nearby. Read on for the full breakdown of what each model does well and where it falls short.
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The Royal Gourmet GA6402B won best overall because its 6-burner layout plus side burner lets you cook mains, sides, and kid-requested items simultaneously — the single biggest convenience factor for family meals.
- Griddle combos (the PD1305H and 4-burner griddle models) proved the best format for picky young eaters, since flat-top cooking handles pancakes, smash burgers, and vegetables with less flare-up risk than open grates.
- Electric models from Cuisinart and George Foreman are the clear choice for apartment balconies and no-open-flame rules, but their ceiling of around 176 square inches means they cap out at roughly four servings.
- The Royal Gourmet charcoal lineup (CC1830, CC1830S, CC1830V) offers the best smoky flavor per dollar, but all three demand 30+ minutes of prep before the first burger hits the grate — a dealbreaker for weeknight family dinners.
- The BIG HORN infrared grill’s 1500°F searing power is genuinely impressive but actively family-hostile: it’s built for steak enthusiasts, not households where little hands wander near the cooking zone.
| Royal Gourmet CC1830 28 Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill with Side Table |  | Best Overall for Large Family Cookouts | Total Cooking Area: 626 sq. in. | Main Grates: 475 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire | Warming Rack: 151 sq. in. chrome-plated steel wire | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Portable Charcoal Grill with Storage Bag & Non-Stick Frying Pan |  | Best Value for Cookouts Away from Home | Fuel Type: Charcoal | Cooking Surface Area: 539 sq. in. | Racks: 3 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 4 Burner Propane Gas Grill with Cast Iron Grates & Griddle Pan |  | Best for Weeknight Family Grilling | BTU: 40,000 | Burners: 4 | Cooking Surface Area: 302 sq. in. | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Cuisinart Electric Grill, Indoor/Outdoor, Compact, Portable, Nonstick |  | Best for Apartment and Balcony Families | Use: Indoor and outdoor | Cooking Surface: 240 sq. in. nonstick | Capacity: Up to 12 burgers | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill with Stand, 15-Serving |  | Best for Health-Conscious Families | Capacity: 15 servings | Fat Removal: Up to 42% | Temperature Settings: 5 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill, Griddle Combo with Lid |  | Best Combo Pick | Cooking Area: 364 sq. in. | Griddle Area: 211 sq. in. | Grill Area: 153 sq. in. | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill with Stand |  | Best for Small Yards and Balconies | Fuel Type: Electric | Heating Power: 1.5 KW | Wattage: 2344.7 watts | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker |  | Best Charcoal Pick for Beginners | Total Cooking Area: 823 sq. in. | Main Grate: 475 sq. in. | Offset Smoker: 197 sq. in. | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Royal Gourmet CC1830V 30-Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill with Side and Front Tables |  | Best Value Charcoal Grill | Total Cooking Surface: 627 sq. in. | Main Smoking Area: 443 sq. in. | Warming Rack: 184 sq. in. | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Royal Gourmet GA6402B 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner, Blue |  | Best for Big Family Cookouts | Burner Count: 6 (5 main + 1 side) | Total BTU: 74,000 | Sear Burner: 14,000 BTU | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Monument Grills 4 Burner Stainless Steel Propane Gas Grill, 525 sq.in, 37,000 BTU |  | Best Overall for Weeknight Family Grilling | Burner Count: 4 | Total BTU: 37,000 | Cooking Surface Area: 525 sq.in | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Feasto 4-Burner Gas Grill with Side Tables, 36,000 BTU, 559 sq.in. |  | Best Value 4-Burner | Number of Burners: 4 | BTU: 36,000 | Cooking Area: 559 sq.in (422 primary, 137 warming rack) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Aoxun 4-Burner 49000 BTU Propane Grill with Side Burner |  | Best for Big Backyard Gatherings | Main Burner Count: 4 plus side burner | Total BTU: 49,000 | Cooking Surface Area: 625 sq.in | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Propane Gas Grill 4 Burner Griddle & Grill Combo, 49,000 BTU with Side Burner |  | Most Versatile for Picky Eaters | Main Burner Count: 4 plus 1 side burner | Total Power: 49,000 BTU | Cooking Surface Area: 440 sq inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BIG HORN OUTDOORS Infrared Propane Gas Grill 1500°F in 3-5 Mins, 16 inch |  | Best for Camping Trips and Pizza Nights | Fuel Type: Propane gas | Heating Power: 19,000 BTU infrared burner | Max Temperature: 1500°F in 3-5 minutes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Royal Gourmet CC1830 28 Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill with Side Table
626 square inches of cooking space is the reason this barrel grill leads the lineup — that’s enough room for burgers, hot dogs, and corn simultaneously, which is exactly what a family cookout demands. Compared with the Portable Charcoal Grill with Storage Bag, the CC1830 trades packability for a warming rack, tool hooks, and a lid-mounted thermometer, so you can actually manage heat instead of guessing. The adjustable lifting rack is the standout for families: crank the grate up for kids’ food and down for searing steaks. The tradeoff is weight and assembly — expect an hour of setup and don’t plan on hauling it to the campground. Unlike the Cuisinart Electric Grill, you get real charcoal flavor, but you also get charcoal cleanup duty.
Pros:- 626 sq. in. total cooking area handles food for a big family in one round
- Adjustable lifting rack gives real heat control for delicate vs. seared foods
- Lid-mounted thermometer removes guesswork for newer grillers
- Side shelf with hooks and heavy-duty wheels make it practical for everyday use
Cons:- Assembly is involved and can take over an hour
- Heavy once built — mobility is limited to rolling it short distances
- Porcelain-enameled grates need covering or sheltering in harsh weather
Best for: Families of five or more who host backyard cookouts and want charcoal flavor with serious cooking capacity
Not ideal for: Campers and tailgaters — this grill is meant to live on a patio, not travel
- Total Cooking Area:626 sq. in.
- Main Grates:475 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire
- Warming Rack:151 sq. in. chrome-plated steel wire
- Thermometer:Lid-mounted
- Heat Control:Adjustable lifting rack
- Side Shelf:Yes, with tool hooks
- Wheels:2 heavy-duty
Our verdict“Buy this if your family cookouts regularly involve a crowd and you want charcoal capability without giving up convenience features.”
Portable Charcoal Grill with Storage Bag & Non-Stick Frying Pan
This grill earns its spot as the go-anywhere charcoal option, with a foldable frame, storage bag, and a bundled frying pan that most competitors skip. At roughly 539 square inches, its cooking surface is close to the Royal Gourmet CC1830’s, which is remarkable for something that packs down — but you give up the thermometer, the adjustable heat rack, and any real temperature control in exchange. The three utensil shelves are a smart touch for picnic-table cooking, and tool-free assembly means the kids can be eating within twenty minutes of arriving at the campsite. It’s not as weather-ready or feature-rich as barrel grills, and there’s no heat adjustment, so this is a set-it-and-tend-it grill rather than a precision instrument.
Pros:- 539 sq. in. cooking area rivals full-size grills at a fraction of the price
- Folds flat and includes a storage bag for genuine portability
- Non-stick frying pan adds breakfast and side-dish capability
- Tool-free assembly gets you cooking fast at remote locations
Cons:- No adjustable heat settings — you manage fire by coal placement only
- Awkward to carry despite being portable
- Charcoal-only fuel limits weeknight convenience
Best for: Budget-minded families who grill at campsites, beaches, and parks more than at home
Not ideal for: Grillers who want temperature control — there are no adjustable heat settings at all
- Fuel Type:Charcoal
- Cooking Surface Area:539 sq. in.
- Racks:3
- Dimensions:39.4″D x 13.2″W x 27.6″H
- Material:Stainless steel
- Includes:Storage bag, non-stick frying pan
- Assembly:No tools required
Our verdict“The smart pick for families whose grilling happens at campgrounds and parks rather than in the backyard.”
4 Burner Propane Gas Grill with Cast Iron Grates & Griddle Pan
If your family grills on Tuesdays instead of just holidays, propane is the answer, and this four-burner unit makes a strong case with 40,000 BTU and a griddle pan alongside cast iron grates. The griddle combo is what separates it from the Cuisinart Electric Grill — you can do pancakes and burgers at the same machine, which matters when feeding picky kids. Four burners also mean four temperature zones, a level of control neither charcoal option in this roundup can match. The tradeoffs: at 48 pounds with assembly that can test your patience, it’s less portable than it looks, and the 302 sq. in. surface is smaller than the Royal Gourmet CC1830’s. This is a convenience-first choice, not a capacity champion.
Pros:- Four burners with independent control enable multi-zone cooking
- Included griddle pan handles breakfast foods, vegetables, and delicate items
- Porcelain enameled cast iron grates deliver even heat and good searing
- Removable grease tray makes cleanup manageable after weeknight meals
Cons:- 48-pound weight and tricky assembly undercut its portability claims
- Smaller cooking surface than similarly priced barrel charcoal grills
- Requires a propane tank, which adds cost and storage considerations
Best for: Busy families who want push-button grilling several times a week with both grates and griddle options
Not ideal for: Large parties — the 302 sq. in. surface caps you at small to medium gatherings
- BTU:40,000
- Burners:4
- Cooking Surface Area:302 sq. in.
- Fuel Type:Propane gas
- Grates:Porcelain enameled cast iron
- Includes:Perforated griddle pan
- Thermometer:Built-in
- Weight:48 lbs
- Extras:Folding side table, wheels, removable grease tray
Our verdict“Choose this when cooking speed and versatility matter more than maximum capacity or charcoal flavor.”
Cuisinart Electric Grill, Indoor/Outdoor, Compact, Portable, Nonstick
The indoor/outdoor flexibility is the whole story here: where propane and charcoal grills in this roundup are locked to the patio, this Cuisinart works on a balcony, in a kitchen, or under an awning on a rainy day. The 240 sq. in. nonstick surface fits twelve burgers — enough for a typical family — and the 350°F to 550°F range with adjustable settings gives real control that the Portable Charcoal Grill lacks entirely. Assembly in under ten minutes with no tools makes it the friendliest entry point for grill novices. The obvious limitation: you need an outlet within six feet, so true off-grid use is off the table. Compared with the George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Grill, you get more capacity but no stand, so plan for table-height placement.
Pros:- Works indoors and outdoors, so weather never cancels dinner
- Adjustable temperature from 350°F to 550°F suits everything from fish to burgers
- Nonstick surface cleans up quickly after family meals
- Under-10-minute tool-free assembly suits first-time grillers
Cons:- Tethered to a 6-foot power cord
- No charcoal or flame flavor — it’s closer to griddled than grilled
- Nonstick coating requires gentle cleaning to avoid damage
Best for: Apartment dwellers, condo owners, and grill beginners who need outlet-powered cooking with zero fuel handling
Not ideal for: Anyone grilling beyond reach of an outlet — the 6-foot cord rules out most campsites
- Use:Indoor and outdoor
- Cooking Surface:240 sq. in. nonstick
- Capacity:Up to 12 burgers
- Temperature Range:350°F to 550°F
- Power:120V electric
- Cord Length:6 feet
- Assembly:Under 10 minutes, tool-free
Our verdict“The right call for families with limited outdoor space or balcony-only grilling rules.”
George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill with Stand, 15-Serving
The sloped cooking surface that removes up to 42% of fat is the differentiator no other grill in this roundup offers, and it’s a genuine selling point for families watching their diets. Like the Cuisinart Electric Grill, it runs on an outlet, but the removable stand means it doubles as a full-height outdoor grill or a countertop indoor unit — more placement flexibility than the Cuisinart offers. Fifteen servings of capacity edges out the Cuisinart’s twelve, and five temperature settings cover the practical range for family foods. The catch: that fat-draining slope only works if the grill sits perfectly level, and you’re still limited to electric power with no smoke or char flavor. For health-focused households, those tradeoffs feel reasonable.
Pros:- Sloped design removes up to 42% of fat for leaner meals
- Removable stand switches between standing outdoor grill and compact indoor unit
- Durable George Tough nonstick coating simplifies cleanup
- 15-serving capacity handles a full family dinner in one batch
Cons:- Requires perfectly level setup for the fat-draining slope to work
- Electric-only power limits placement and produces no grilled char flavor
- Five temperature settings offer less fine control than knob-based rivals
Best for: Health-conscious families who want fat-reduced grilling with the flexibility of indoor or outdoor use
Not ideal for: Flavor purists — electric cooking with no charcoal or propane means missing traditional char and smoke
- Capacity:15 servings
- Fat Removal:Up to 42%
- Temperature Settings:5
- Nonstick Coating:George Tough
- Stand:Removable
- Power:Electric
- Use:Indoor and outdoor
Our verdict“Pick this if leaner cooking and indoor/outdoor versatility rank higher for your family than smoky grill flavor.”
Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill, Griddle Combo with Lid
This model stands out for doing three jobs at once: grill, griddle, and side burner, which matters when feeding kids who want pancakes while adults want burgers. Compared with the Royal Gourmet GA6402B, it trades raw cooking capacity (364 sq. in. total vs. 774) for portability, making it a better fit for families who tailgate or camp. The 29,000 BTU output across three burners is respectable for its size, though buyers should expect cooler edges on the griddle plate — plan to rotate food rather than set it and forget it. The removable grease management cuts cleanup time, a real win with young helpers around.
Pros:- Versatile 3-in-1 design covers griddle, grill, and pot cooking
- Portable enough for camping and tailgating trips
- Powerful 29,000 BTU across multiple burners
- Easy grease cleanup after messy family breakfasts
Cons:- Uneven heat at the edges of the griddle surface
- Bulky footprint relative to true portable grills
- Requires propane tank setup before first use
Best for: Families who camp or tailgate and want griddle and grill options in one portable unit
Not ideal for: Households wanting a stationary backyard centerpiece — the GA6402B offers far more capacity for similar effort
- Cooking Area:364 sq. in.
- Griddle Area:211 sq. in.
- Grill Area:153 sq. in.
- BTU Power:29,000 BTU
- Main Burners:2 x 8,500 BTU
- Side Burner:12,000 BTU
Our verdict“Buy this if your family cooking happens beyond the backyard and you want breakfast and burgers from one unit.”
George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill with Stand
For families in apartments or homes without propane storage, this electric option removes the fuel question entirely — plug it in and grill. The fat-removing slope sets it apart from every charcoal and gas model here, including the Royal Gourmet CC1830V, because grease drains away rather than dripping onto burners, meaning fewer flare-ups when kids are nearby. The tradeoff is fundamental: no open-flame flavor, and you’re tethered to a 120V outlet, so true outdoor mobility is limited. Compared with the Cuisinart compact electric also in this roundup, this one’s 200 sq. in. surface handles larger family batches, but at 14.3 pounds with a stand, it is more of a semi-permanent patio fixture.
Pros:- Works indoors and outdoors with no propane or charcoal needed
- Fat-removing slope produces leaner meals with less smoke
- Nonstick surface makes cleanup quick
- Adjustable temperature control suits delicate foods like fish
Cons:- Tethered to a 120V outlet, limiting placement
- No charcoal or flame flavor in the finished food
Best for: Apartment dwellers and balcony grillers who cannot use propane or charcoal
Not ideal for: Anyone chasing smoky, flame-grilled flavor — electric heating can’t replicate charcoal results
- Fuel Type:Electric
- Heating Power:1.5 KW
- Wattage:2344.7 watts
- Cooking Surface Area:200 sq. in.
- Power Levels:5
- Item Weight:14.3 lbs
Our verdict“This makes the most sense for families restricted to electric grilling who still want real capacity.”
Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker
This model earns its spot as the easiest entry into charcoal smoking in the lineup. The attached offset smoker box lets families experiment with low-and-slow ribs or a turkey breast without the cost or learning curve of a dedicated smoker. Compared with the Royal Gourmet CC1830V, it offers a larger total cooking area (823 vs. 627 sq. in.) plus the smoking chamber, but the 20 lb bottom shelf limit means it cannot hold a full propane tank or heavy storage bins — prep space is genuinely tight. The built-in thermometer and adjustable racks give newcomers visible feedback while learning fire management, which is the difference between frustration and confidence on day one. Assembly takes patience; budget an afternoon.
Pros:- Offset smoker adds genuine low-and-slow capability
- 823 sq. in. total area handles big family gatherings
- Built-in thermometer helps beginners track heat
- Adjustable racks and removable charcoal pan simplify fire control
Cons:- Bottom shelf limited to 20 lbs of storage
- Assembly can be complex and time-consuming
- Bulky footprint for small patios
Best for: Families new to charcoal who want to try smoking without buying a dedicated smoker
Not ideal for: Grillers wanting quick weeknight burgers — charcoal setup and cleanup takes far longer than the GA6402B gas option
- Total Cooking Area:823 sq. in.
- Main Grate:475 sq. in.
- Offset Smoker:197 sq. in.
- Warming Rack:151 sq. in.
- Fuel Type:Charcoal
- Built-In Thermometer:Yes
- Side Tables:Folding
Our verdict“The smartest first charcoal-and-smoke setup for a family that wants to grow into the hobby.”
Royal Gourmet CC1830V 30-Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill with Side and Front Tables
Where the CC1830S is about learning to smoke, this barrel grill is about straightforward charcoal cooking done well. The adjustable fire grate is the standout: raising and lowering the coals gives real heat control that most budget charcoal grills lack, so hot dogs and steaks can share the same cookout without drama. Its 627 sq. in. of surface is generous for the price class, and the ash dump feature removes the messiest part of charcoal ownership. Compared with gas options like the Feasto 4-Burner, you give up push-button convenience and side-burner versatility, but gain that charcoal flavor and a lighter 37.9 lb frame. The side and front tables genuinely help when plating for a crowd.
Pros:- Adjustable fire grate allows precise heat management
- 627 sq. in. of cooking surface for large batches
- Side and front tables provide real prep space
- Ash dump feature makes cleanup manageable
Cons:- Charcoal-only — no gas or electric flexibility
- Assembly is required and time-consuming
- At 37.9 lbs it is awkward to move frequently
Best for: Budget-conscious families who prioritize charcoal flavor and simple, predictable heat control
Not ideal for: Busy households wanting instant start-up — charcoal requires 20-30 minutes of prep before cooking
- Total Cooking Surface:627 sq. in.
- Main Smoking Area:443 sq. in.
- Warming Rack:184 sq. in.
- Fuel Type:Charcoal
- Adjustable Fire Grates:Yes
- Item Weight:37.9 lbs
- Side and Front Tables:Yes
Our verdict“The best bang-for-buck charcoal grill here for families who cook for crowds on a budget.”
Royal Gourmet GA6402B 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner, Blue
When the whole extended family shows up, this is the grill that keeps up. With 774 sq. in. of cooking space and 74,000 total BTU — including a 14,000 BTU sear burner — it out-cooks every other gas model in this roundup, including the Aoxun 4-Burner at 49,000 BTU. The dedicated side burner means baked beans or sauce stay off the kitchen stove, and the enclosed cabinet with locking casters gives it a built-in feel that cheaper open-frame grills lack. The tradeoffs are physical: at 103.6 pounds, expect a two-person assembly and a permanent patio placement. The built-in thermometer and removable grease tray handle the day-to-day, but confirm pricing carefully — this sits at the premium end of the lineup.
Pros:- 774 sq. in. capacity handles large gatherings in one session
- 74,000 BTU total output with a dedicated sear burner
- Side burner frees the indoor kitchen for sides
- Enclosed cabinet and locking casters add stability and storage
Cons:- 103.6 lbs — setup requires two people
- Assembly is lengthy and involved
- Premium price point relative to 4-burner alternatives
Best for: Households that regularly host 10+ guests and need simultaneous multi-zone cooking
Not ideal for: Small families of 3-4 — most of that capacity will sit unused, and it dominates a modest patio
- Burner Count:6 (5 main + 1 side)
- Total BTU:74,000
- Sear Burner:14,000 BTU
- Cooking Area:774 sq. in.
- Fuel Type:Propane gas
- Built-In Thermometer:Yes
- Item Weight:103.6 lbs
- Warming Rack:Yes
Our verdict“Buy this only if big cookouts are a regular routine, not an occasional event.”
Monument Grills 4 Burner Stainless Steel Propane Gas Grill, 525 sq.in, 37,000 BTU
The Monument 4-Burner earns the top spot because it balances everything a family actually needs without tipping into overkill. At 525 square inches and 37,000 BTU, it comfortably handles burgers and hot dogs for six to eight people without the fuel appetite of the Aoxun 4-Burner‘s 49,000 BTU output. The foldable side shelves are the standout family-friendly feature here — they tuck away for tight patios or garage storage, something bulkier rivals like the Feasto can’t do. A built-in thermometer in the lid means parents can keep an eye on temperature without lifting the hood and losing heat mid-cook. The tradeoff is moderate: it lacks a side burner, so sauces and sides need the kitchen stove, and there’s no griddle surface for pancakes or eggs the way the combo model offers.
Pros:- Foldable side shelves save real space on smaller patios
- 304 stainless steel burners and 430 stainless lid resist corrosion season after season
- Built-in lid thermometer helps prevent undercooked chicken
- Roughly 30-minute assembly is quicker than most 4-burner rivals
Cons:- No side burner means sides and sauces stay indoors
- Weight isn’t published, and 50-inch-wide grills this size are rarely one-person moves
Best for: Suburban families with a small-to-medium patio who grill several times a week and value compact storage
Not ideal for: Buyers who want an all-in-one outdoor kitchen — there’s no side burner or griddle, and the 405 sq.in main grate caps crowd-sized cooking
- Burner Count:4
- Total BTU:37,000
- Cooking Surface Area:525 sq.in
- Main Grilling Area:405 sq.in
- Warming Rack Area:120 sq.in
- Material:304 stainless steel burners, cast iron enamel grates, 430 stainless lid
- Dimensions:21.4 x 50.6 x 41.4 inches
- Assembly Time:Approximately 30 minutes
Our verdict“The most sensible all-around pick for families who grill regularly but don’t need to feed a block party.”
Feasto 4-Burner Gas Grill with Side Tables, 36,000 BTU, 559 sq.in.
Where the Monument wins on polish, the Feasto 4-Burner wins on raw capacity per dollar. Its 559 square inches edge out the Monument’s 525, including a larger 137 sq.in warming rack — genuinely useful when kids’ hot dogs finish before the adults’ steaks. The porcelain-enamel firebox and stamped grates make cleanup forgiving, which matters if you’re grilling with kids underfoot and don’t have time for scrubbing sessions. Tool hooks and wheels add convenience the Monument skips entirely. The compromises are real, though: it’s a hefty 64 pounds without the Monument’s folding shelves, so it occupies permanent patio real estate, and the powder-coated finish won’t age as gracefully as the Monument’s stainless lid in harsh weather.
Pros:- 559 sq.in of cooking space beats pricier 4-burner rivals
- Porcelain-enamel surfaces wipe clean quickly after messy family cooks
- Tool hooks and side tables keep tongs and plates off the ground
- Built-in thermometer and warming rack at a value price point
Cons:- 64 pounds with no folding option makes repositioning a two-person job
- Powder-coated steel is less corrosion-resistant than the Monument’s stainless construction
Best for: Budget-conscious families who host occasionally and prioritize maximum cooking space over premium materials
Not ideal for: Anyone with very limited patio storage — at 64 pounds and over 50 inches wide, this grill is staying wherever you build it
- Number of Burners:4
- BTU:36,000
- Cooking Area:559 sq.in (422 primary, 137 warming rack)
- Material:Porcelain-enamel firebox, cast iron grates, stainless steel accents
- Dimensions:50.4 x 24 x 45.3 inches
- Weight:64 pounds
- Mobility:Wheels
- Built-In Thermometer:Yes
Our verdict“The smart choice for families who want big-grill capacity without big-grill money, as long as it has a permanent home.”
Aoxun 4-Burner 49000 BTU Propane Grill with Side Burner
When the whole extended family shows up, the Aoxun is the grill you want running. Its 625 square inches out-cooks both the Feasto (559) and Monument (525), and the 49,000 BTU output preheats fast enough that hungry kids aren’t circling for an hour. The side burner is the differentiator — it lets you simmer baked beans or warm sauce outdoors instead of running inside, which neither the Monument nor Feasto offers. That power comes at a cost, literally: high BTU output means faster propane consumption, and at roughly 55 pounds with no folding shelves, it demands serious dedicated space. Compared to the combo grill at the same 49,000 BTU, the Aoxun trades griddle versatility for a larger dedicated grate — the right call if burgers and chicken are your priority.
Pros:- 625 sq.in of cooking space is the largest in this gas-grill group
- Side burner keeps sides and sauces cooking outdoors
- Rust-proof stainless steel construction holds up to weather
- Removable grates and grease tray simplify post-party cleanup
Cons:- 49,000 BTU burns through propane noticeably faster than the Feasto or Monument
- Bulky and heavy with no folding features for storage
Best for: Families who regularly host 10+ guests and want an outdoor cooking station, not just a grill
Not ideal for: Small patios or balconies — the footprint, weight, and fuel appetite make it impractical for tight spaces or occasional use
- Main Burner Count:4 plus side burner
- Total BTU:49,000
- Cooking Surface Area:625 sq.in
- Material:Stainless steel
- Dimensions:40 x 40 x 40 inches
- Weight:25 kg (55 lbs)
- Additional Features:Side burner, removable grates, grease tray
Our verdict“Built for the household where every cookout is a crowd — skip it if your guest list rarely exceeds six.”
Propane Gas Grill 4 Burner Griddle & Grill Combo, 49,000 BTU with Side Burner
Feeding a family with mixed tastes — the steak crowd, the pancake crowd, the veggie-only youngest child — is where this grill-and-griddle combo justifies itself. The reversible porcelain cast iron griddle means breakfast, grilled cheese, and stir-fried vegetables happen alongside burgers, something no other grill in this lineup except the Royal Gourmet PD1305H can attempt. Like the Aoxun, it delivers 49,000 BTU and a side burner, but it trades dedicated grate space (440 sq.in versus Aoxun’s 625) for that flat-top flexibility. The manufacturer claims it feeds 8-10 people, which holds up only if you’re cooking in stages. Be prepared for a more involved assembly than the Monument’s 30-minute build, and budget for a cover, since none is included.
Pros:- Reversible griddle/grill surface handles breakfast, sides, and mains
- Side burner plus warming rack covers a full outdoor meal
- Weather-resistant stainless and cast iron construction
- Feeds 8-10 people with staged cooking
Cons:- 440 sq.in main surface is the smallest of the 4-burner gas grills here
- Complex assembly and no included cover add hidden cost and hassle
Best for: Families with varied eaters who want breakfast, sides, and mains from one outdoor appliance
Not ideal for: Buyers wanting a simple set-and-forget grill — the combo assembly is fiddly and the griddle adds cleanup after every use
- Main Burner Count:4 plus 1 side burner
- Total Power:49,000 BTU
- Cooking Surface Area:440 sq inches
- Grates:Porcelain cast iron, reversible griddle
- Dimensions:19.1 x 48.1 x 45.6 inches
- Built-In Thermometer:Yes
- Extra Features:Removable grease tray, tool holder, warming rack
Our verdict“The pick for households where one cooking surface is never enough — as long as you accept a smaller grate and a longer setup.”
BIG HORN OUTDOORS Infrared Propane Gas Grill 1500°F in 3-5 Mins, 16 inch
The BIG HORN infrared grill plays a completely different role from the big 4-burners here. Instead of feeding a crowd, it does two things they can’t: it travels, and it hits 1500°F in 3-5 minutes — enough for genuine Neapolitan-style pizza with the included stone, something the Aoxun or combo grill simply can’t replicate. The 10 adjustable rack positions let you fine-tune distance from the flame, a precision feature that makes it fun for older kids to experiment with (under supervision). The obvious tradeoff is capacity: 143 square inches means cooking in shifts for any family larger than three or four. Note that the propane tank and batteries are sold separately, so factor that into the true cost before your first trip.
Pros:- Reaches 1500°F in 3-5 minutes for true pizza-oven results
- Lightweight 14 kg build with portable footprint for camping and tailgating
- 10 adjustable rack positions and included pizza stone add real versatility
- Stainless steel construction survives road trips and weather
Cons:- 143 sq.in cooking surface is a fraction of the 4-burner grills here
- Tank and batteries not included, and regular cleaning is required to maintain infrared performance
Best for: Adventurous families who camp or tailgate and want restaurant-quality pizza away from home
Not ideal for: Families whose main use is backyard cookouts — 143 sq.in forces batch cooking and the high heat demands constant attention
- Fuel Type:Propane gas
- Heating Power:19,000 BTU infrared burner
- Max Temperature:1500°F in 3-5 minutes
- Cooking Surface Area:143 square inches
- Rack Positions:10 adjustable levels
- Material:Stainless steel
- Dimensions:15.4 x 25 x 15.39 inches
- Weight:14 kg (31 lbs)
Our verdict“A specialty tool for travel and pizza nights — pair it with a full-size grill, or choose it instead of one only if cooking for two or three.”
How We Picked
I judged every grill through one specific lens: how well it serves a household cooking for four or more people, often with kids underfoot. That meant prioritizing total cooking capacity (anything under 300 square inches struggled to feed a family in one round), ease of ignition and temperature control (push-button gas beats charcoal setup on a Tuesday night), and cleanup burden, because a grill that takes 20 minutes to scrape is a grill that stops getting used. I also weighed safety-adjacent features like side tables that keep tools and plates away from direct heat, lids that contain flare-ups, and stable wheeled carts versus wobbly leg stands.
The ranking order reflects a simple hierarchy: grills that combine large capacity with fast, predictable gas cooking landed at the top; versatile mid-size griddle combos filled the value tier; charcoal models scored well on flavor and price but lost points on prep time and temperature management; and single-purpose or specialty units like the infrared searer ranked lower because they solve problems most families don’t have. Where two models seemed similar, I gave the edge to the one with better build quality reports and more usable side prep space.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Family-friendly Outdoor Grills
Choosing a family grill involves more than picking the biggest model on the page. These are the factors that actually determine whether your grill gets used every weekend or becomes a patio ornament by July.Match Cooking Capacity to Your Real Household Size
Manufacturers advertise total square inches that combine primary and warming racks, which can inflate the number by 40% or more. A family of four needs roughly 350–450 primary square inches to cook a full meal in one pass; anything smaller means batching burgers while the first round goes cold. The most common buying mistake is overcorrecting, though — a 6-burner cart like the GA6402B eats 60+ inches of patio width and burns more propane per meal than a 4-burner doing the same job. My advice: buy for your regular Tuesday crowd, not the once-a-year reunion. If you host large groups occasionally, a mid-size grill plus an inexpensive portable unit costs less than an oversized flagship.
Fuel Type Is Really a Lifestyle Decision
Gas, charcoal, and electric aren’t just flavor options — they dictate when and where you’ll actually grill. Propane grills go from ignition to cooking in ten minutes, which is why they dominate this roundup for families; charcoal demands 30–40 minutes of lead time and constant vent management. Electric grills sidestep open-flame restrictions entirely, making them the only legal option on many apartment balconies and in HOA communities, but they sacrifice searing power and smoky character. A useful test: think about the last three times you wanted grilled food. If those moments were weeknight dinners, buy gas or electric. If they were lazy weekend afternoons, charcoal’s flavor advantage starts to justify its hassle.
Griddle Combos Solve the Picky-Eater Problem
The biggest under-discussed factor for families is that young children often reject char-marked food entirely. A griddle surface cooks hot dogs, quesadillas, pancakes, and chopped vegetables in a format kids actually accept, and it eliminates flare-ups — the flare-up being both a burn risk and the source of bitter, charred spots that turn kids off grilled food. Combo units that pair a griddle plate with traditional grates give you a hedge: adult sear zone on one side, kid zone on the other. If your children are under eight, I’d argue the griddle matters more than the grill grates, and several models in this roundup let you swap between them in seconds.
Safety Features That Actually Matter With Kids Around
Two safety elements are worth paying for: stable carts with locking wheels and burner knobs positioned on the front panel, away from reaching hands. Front-mounted controls mean you never reach over a hot cooking surface to adjust temperature — a real risk when you’re distracted by children. Look for a lid with a sturdy handle and heat-resistant grips, and check whether the grease tray is enclosed or open; an open catch pan near ground level is a burn and mess hazard with toddlers. Also verify the clearance requirements in the manual: most gas grills need several feet of open space from siding and railings, and many buyers discover this only after the grill arrives.
Total Cost of Ownership Beyond the Sticker Price
A $180 grill that rusts through its grates in two seasons costs more than a $350 stainless model that lasts six years. Factor in replacement grates, grease trays, and propane — a 6-burner grill can burn through a standard tank in 8–10 heavy sessions, while an electric unit costs pennies per cook. Cheap paint-lid charcoal grills are the worst value in the category: the bodies corrode fast, and replacement parts often aren’t sold at all. Before buying any model, check whether grates and burners are available as spare parts, because those are the two components that always fail first.
Assembly Time and Storage Reality Check
Cart-style gas grills commonly require 1–2 hours of assembly with basic tools, and reviews consistently show assembly frustration as the top complaint for budget brands — factor in whether you’ll actually do this or should budget for assembly service. Storage matters more than buyers expect: if your grill lives outside uncovered, porcelain-coated cast iron grates will rust and a painted steel lid will bubble within a year, so add a fitted cover to your budget. Portable models like the Cuisinart electric or the small charcoal unit with a storage bag make sense only if you’ll genuinely move them; if they’ll sit on the same patio spot forever, their compact size becomes a pure capacity sacrifice with no offsetting benefit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a griddle or traditional grill better for families with young kids?
For households with children under ten, a griddle surface usually wins. Kids tend to reject char marks and smoky flavors, while a flat top handles their actual favorites — pancakes, scrambled eggs, hot dogs, and chopped veggies — without flare-ups that char food unpredictably. Griddles also remove the fat-drip flare-up problem entirely, which makes the cooking zone more predictable when children are nearby. The tradeoff is that you lose the seared crust adults want on steaks and burgers. That’s why combo models like the Royal Gourmet PD1305H rank so well here: they give each household faction its own surface without buying two appliances.
Can I use a gas or charcoal grill on an apartment balcony?
It depends entirely on your building’s rules, and you should check before buying anything. Many apartment complexes and HOAs ban open-flame grills outright, including both charcoal and most propane models, citing fire code. Electric grills like the Cuisinart Indoor/Outdoor and the George Foreman stand models are typically the only permitted option in these situations, since they produce no open flame and are usually classified the same as indoor appliances. If your balcony allows propane, look for a compact model and confirm the clearance requirements from railings and the wall above — most manuals call for at least a foot or more of clearance, which small balconies often can’t provide.
How many burners does a family of four or five actually need?
Three to four burners covers most families comfortably, and this is where buyers frequently overspend. The real benefit of more burners isn’t raw heat — it’s zoning, meaning you can sear chicken on high heat while keeping burger buns and cooked food warm on low at the other end. A 4-burner model like the Monument or Feasto gives you enough zones for a main, a side, and a warming area. Six burners only pay off if you regularly cook for eight or more people; otherwise you’re paying extra for burners that stay off and a wider footprint eating your patio. A side burner, however, is genuinely useful for pots of beans or sauce and costs relatively little to add.
Are cheap Royal Gourmet charcoal grills worth it compared to gas?
They’re worth it only if you grill on weekends and genuinely value smoky flavor, because charcoal demands real time investment. Every charcoal model in this roundup requires 30–40 minutes from lighting to cooking temperature, plus ongoing vent adjustment to hold steady heat — hard to justify on a school night. The offset smoker version, the CC1830S, adds another layer of capability but also another layer of tending. Where these grills shine is value: at their price point, you get more cooking area per dollar than any gas model, and charcoal itself is inexpensive. If your family grills recreationally rather than functionally, they’re a legitimate choice; if grilling is your weeknight dinner method, gas will get used three times as often.
What’s the safest grill type when toddlers or small kids are around?
Electric grills are the safest by a wide margin, since there’s no open flame, no hot coals to dispose of, and no propane connections to leak. The George Foreman stand models and the Cuisinart electric both keep heat contained under a lid and cool down faster than fuel-burning grills. That said, any grill’s surface stays dangerously hot for a while after cooking, so placement matters more than fuel type: position the grill where children can’t reach it, keep the propane tank and grease tray inaccessible, and never leave a hot grill unattended in a yard with kids. A wheeled cart you can roll away and lock also helps create distance once cooking ends.
Conclusion
For the best overall family grill, the Royal Gourmet GA6402B 6-Burner is the pick that handles crowds, side dishes, and everything in between without breaking a sweat. If value is your priority, the Royal Gourmet PD1305H griddle combo delivers the most meal flexibility per dollar in this entire lineup, and the 4-burner Monument and Feasto models are strong runner-ups for gas purists who don’t need six burners. Beginners and balcony dwellers should start with the Cuisinart or George Foreman electric grills — forgiving, flame-free, and impossible to ruin a meal on, with the tradeoff of limited capacity. For flavor-focused weekend cooks, the Royal Gourmet CC1830V or the CC1830S with its offset smoker offer the best charcoal experience here. And if you have a specific searing obsession and no curious little hands nearby, the BIG HORN infrared grill earns its spot — just know it’s a specialist tool, not a family workhorse. Whatever you choose, size the grill to your real weekly routine, not your fantasy cookouts, and it will earn its place on the patio for years.
