Upgrade Your Patio: Top Natural Gas Grills for Home Cooks
The Weber Genesis E-325s is the best natural gas grill for most homeowners, offering excellent heat distribution, sturdy construction, and a familiar layout. It suits those who value reliability and even cooking. Its main limitation is the lack of a side burner, which some users might miss.
Natural gas grills connect directly to your home’s gas line, so you never run out of fuel mid-cook. They heat up fast and are cost-effective over time. But choosing the right one involves more than just looking at BTUs; you need to consider burner design, material quality, and how the grill fits your outdoor space.
We compared seven popular models from trusted brands. Each offers a different balance of power, features, and price. Whether you need a compact two-burner for a small patio or a six-burner beast for serious entertaining, this guide will help you narrow down the options.
How to pick the right one
What we recommend
Weber Genesis E-325s Natural Gas Grill
The Weber Genesis E-325s is a three-burner workhorse with a porcelain-enameled lid and stainless steel cooking grates. Its GS4 grilling system ensures efficient ignition and even heat. Owners praise its solid construction and consistent results, though it lacks a side burner.
Pros
- Even heat distribution with minimal hot spots
- Rust-resistant materials for long life
- Easy to assemble and clean
Cons
- No side burner
- Pricey compared to similar three-burner models
Napoleon Prestige Pro 500 Natural Gas Grill
The Napoleon Prestige Pro 500 is a premium five-burner grill with a rear infrared rotisserie and JETFIRE ignition. It includes a side burner and a smoker tray. Owners love its precise temperature control and the ability to sear perfectly, but it comes with a high price tag.
Pros
- Infrared rear burner for rotisserie cooking
- Integrated smoker tray for added flavor
- Precise temperature control with dual thermometers
Cons
- Very expensive
- Assembly can be complex
Broil King Signet 90 Natural Gas Grill
The Broil King Signet 90 offers a generous 635 square inches of cooking space across six burners. Its dual-tube burners and Flav-R-Wave cooking system promote even heat and reduce flare-ups. With a reasonable price, it’s a favorite for families who grill frequently.
Pros
- Huge cooking surface for big gatherings
- Excellent heat retention
- Good price for the features
Cons
- Heavy and hard to move
- Some owners report uneven heating on outer burners
Char-Broil Performance 475 Natural Gas Grill
The Char-Broil Performance 475 is an affordable four-burner grill with a side burner and a stainless steel lid. It uses porcelain-coated cast iron grates and has a warming rack. While not as rugged as premium models, it offers reliable performance for the price.
Pros
- Budget-friendly price
- Includes side burner
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Thinner metal may not last as long
- Heat distribution can be uneven
Monument Grills 4-Burner Natural Gas Grill
The Monument Grills 4-Burner model includes a built-in smart thermometer with app connectivity, allowing you to monitor food temps from your phone. It has a stainless steel body and a side burner. This grill appeals to tech-savvy cooks, though some users find the app finicky.
Pros
- Smart thermometer with app alerts
- Large cooking area
- Stainless steel construction
Cons
- App connectivity issues reported
- Assembly instructions could be clearer
Dyna-Glo DGN486DPC Natural Gas Grill
The Dyna-Glo DGN486DPC is a four-burner liquid propane grill that can be converted to natural gas with a kit (sold separately). It features a slide-out grease pan and a side shelf. Often chosen for its low cost and decent performance, but conversion adds extra expense.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Slide-out grease tray makes cleaning easy
- Side shelf offers prep space
Cons
- Requires separate natural gas conversion kit
- Not as durable as higher-end models
Cuisinart CGG-306 Natural Gas Grill
The Cuisinart CGG-306 is a compact two-burner grill ideal for balconies or small patios. It has a folding stand for easy storage and a built-in thermometer. While limited in capacity, it delivers solid heat for its size and is easy to move.
Pros
- Compact and foldable for storage
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Perfect for couples or small families
Cons
- Small cooking area
- Lower BTU output
Side by side
| # | Model | Cooking Area | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Weber Genesis E-325s Natural Gas Grill | 513 sq in total (main + warming rack) | Best overall for even cooking and durability | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Napoleon Prestige Pro 500 Natural Gas Grill | 500 sq in primary + 120 sq in top rack | Best for advanced features and infrared searing | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Broil King Signet 90 Natural Gas Grill | 635 sq in total | Best value for large cooking area | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Char-Broil Performance 475 Natural Gas Grill | 475 sq in main + warming rack | Best budget-friendly option | 8.6 | Check price |
| 5 | Monument Grills 4-Burner Natural Gas Grill | 650 sq in total | Best for smart features and connectivity | 8.4 | Check price |
| 6 | Dyna-Glo DGN486DPC Natural Gas Grill | 486 sq in total | Best for portability despite being stationary | 8.2 | Check price |
| 7 | Cuisinart CGG-306 Natural Gas Grill | 306 sq in total | Best for small spaces and apartments | 8.0 | Check price |
Common questions
Is it worth converting a propane grill to natural gas?
Conversion can be cost-effective if you have a natural gas line near your patio. You avoid the hassle of refilling propane tanks and often save money in the long run. However, conversion kits may void warranties, and not all grills are easily convertible. Check with the manufacturer before attempting.
How many BTUs do I need for a good natural gas grill?
BTU output is not the only indicator of performance. A typical three-burner grill with 30,000 to 40,000 BTUs is sufficient for most home cooks. What matters more is the efficiency of the burner system and the quality of the heat distribution. High BTU numbers on cheap grills can be misleading.
Can I use a natural gas grill in an apartment or balcony?
Many apartments and condos prohibit natural gas grills due to fire codes. Always check with your building management. If allowed, ensure proper ventilation and clearance. Compact models like the Cuisinart CGG-306 are designed for small spaces but still require safe placement.
What is the average lifespan of a natural gas grill?
With proper care, a quality natural gas grill can last 10 to 15 years. Cheaper models may only last 3 to 5 years. Regular cleaning, covering the grill when not in use, and protecting it from harsh weather can extend its life.
Do natural gas grills heat up faster than propane grills?
Natural gas grills generally heat up as fast as propane grills, but they may have a slightly lower maximum temperature due to lower energy content per cubic foot. However, the difference is negligible for most cooking.
Can I use my natural gas grill for smoking?
Some natural gas grills have built-in smoker boxes or trays that allow you to add wood chips. If smoking is a priority, look for a model with a dedicated smoker attachment or an infrared rotisserie that can be used with smoke.
How do I clean my natural gas grill?
After each use, brush the grates with a grill brush. Periodically remove the grates and burners to clean out debris. Use a mild soap and water solution on the exterior. Check the grease tray and empty it regularly to prevent flare-ups.
What is the warranty on natural gas grills?
Warranties vary by brand and model. Typically, the firebox and burners are covered for 5 to 10 years, while other parts like knobs and grates have shorter coverage. Always read the warranty details to understand what is included.
Are natural gas grills safe to leave connected?
Yes, natural gas grills are designed to be permanently connected to a gas line. However, you should shut off the gas at the valve when the grill is not in use for extended periods. Always check connections for leaks using soapy water.
Can I install a natural gas grill myself?
Only a licensed professional should install a natural gas line. The grill itself may be assembled by the owner, but the gas hookup must be done by an expert to ensure safety and compliance with local codes.
Final word
For most households, we recommend the Weber Genesis E-325s for its proven reliability and even cooking. If you want advanced features and are willing to invest, the Napoleon Prestige Pro 500 offers exceptional performance. Budget-conscious buyers should consider the Char-Broil Performance 475, but be prepared for a shorter lifespan.
