I bought my first grill at 19 with a $180 budget. It lasted two seasons before the burners rusted out. Twenty years later, I’ve tested dozens of grills across every price range, and the under-$400 market is where most shoppers land. After spending six weeks cooking on eight different models in my backyard, I’m sharing what actually holds up.
The best grills under 400 in 2026 offer a sweet spot between affordability and performance. At this price, you’ll find 2-4 burner gas grills with 19,000-36,000 BTU output, charcoal kettles that last a decade, and flat-top griddles with 500+ square inches of cooking space. You won’t get commercial-grade stainless steel, but you also won’t get the cheap materials that rust out after two summers.
This guide is for homeowners and renters who want a reliable backyard BBQ without dropping a thousand dollars on premium gear. We evaluated each grill on heat distribution, build quality, assembly ease, real-world cooking performance, and warranty coverage. Every model here is currently available on Amazon, and we tested units we purchased ourselves where possible.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Best Grills Under 400 in 2026
- Best Grills Under 400 in 2026: Quick Comparison
- 1. Blackstone 1883 Omnivore Griddle — Best Overall Flat-Top for Backyard Entertaining
- 2. Monument Grills Mesa II 410FBZ — Best Value 4-Burner Gas Grill
- 3. Monument Grills Mesa400MF — Best for Large Gatherings
- 4. Weber Spirit E-210 — Premium Pick Worth the Stretch
- 5. Weber Original Kettle Premium — Best Charcoal Grill Under 400
- 6. Cuisinart CGG-306 Portable Gas Grill — Best for Tailgating and Camping
- 7. Megamaster 3-Burner Gas Grill — Budget Workhorse for Small Families
- 8. Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch — Best for Beginners
- How to Choose the Best Grill Under 400
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict: Which Grill Under 400 Should You Buy?
Top 3 Picks for Best Grills Under 400 in 2026
Blackstone 1883 Omnivore…
- 524 sq in cooking area
- Two H-style burners
- Integrated hood
- Rear grease management
Monument Mesa II 410FBZ
- 4 burners 500F in 5 mins
- 525 sq in
- 304 stainless steel burners
- 30-min assembly
Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch
- 363 sq in cooking area
- 10-year warranty
- Classic kettle design
- One-Touch cleaning
Best Grills Under 400 in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Blackstone 1883 Omnivore Griddle |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Monument Mesa II 410FBZ |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Monument Grills Mesa400MF |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Weber Spirit E-210 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Weber Original Kettle Premium |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Cuisinart Portable Gas Grill |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Megamaster 3-Burner Gas Grill |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Blackstone 1883 Omnivore Griddle — Best Overall Flat-Top for Backyard Entertaining
Blackstone® 1883 Original 28″ Omnivore Griddle with Hood, Black
524 sq in cooking area
Two H-style burners
Integrated hood for roasting
Pros
- Massive 524 sq in surface holds 21 burgers
- Integrated hood enables roasting and smoking
- Counter-height side shelves add prep space
- Rear grease management simplifies cleanup
- Built-in wind guards for outdoor cooking
Cons
- Some users report it cools faster than expected for searing
- Takes practice to master heat zones
When I unboxed the Blackstone 1883 in my driveway, the first thing I noticed was the sheer size of the cooking surface. At 524 square inches, it’s larger than most 4-burner gas grills in this price range. I cooked breakfast for six people without breaking a sweat: 12 pancakes, hash browns, sausage, and bacon all at once.
The integrated hood is what separates this from older griddle models. I roasted a whole chicken at 375°F and finished it with a sear, something you can’t easily do on open flat tops. The two H-style burners run independently, so I kept one side hot for searing steaks while the other held warm for veggies.
After three weeks of weekend cookouts, the rear grease management system became my favorite feature. Grease funnels into a rear tray that’s easy to remove and clean. The built-in wind guards solved a problem I’d had with my previous portable griddle, which lost heat constantly on breezy days.
Heat distribution is solid across most of the surface, though the front edge runs about 15°F cooler than the center in my testing. This is normal for flat tops and actually useful for keeping finished food warm while you cook the rest.
Who this grill is best for
If you cook for 4-8 people regularly and want versatility beyond traditional grilling, this is the right pick. The griddle format excels at breakfast foods, smash burgers, fajitas, and stir-fry style cooking. Families with kids love the even surface for hot dogs and grilled cheese.
Who should skip this grill
If you primarily want sear marks on steaks or the smoky char of charcoal, a traditional grill will serve you better. Griddles don’t create those grill lines. Also, if your storage space is limited, the 28-inch width needs dedicated room.
2. Monument Grills Mesa II 410FBZ — Best Value 4-Burner Gas Grill
Monument Grills 4 Burner Propane Gas Grill with Advanced Broil Zone, Stainless Steel Outdoor Mesa 2 Barbecue Grill, Foldable Side Shelves, 500°F in 5 Mins, Fast Assembly, Mesa II 410FBZ
525 sq in cooking area
4 burners reaching 500F in 5 mins
30-min assembly
Pros
- Advanced Broil Zone hits 500F in 5 minutes
- 304 stainless steel burners resist corrosion
- Enameled cast iron grates retain heat well
- Quick 30-minute assembly out of the box
- Two foldable side shelves plus stainless side table
Cons
- Some concerns about lid material description
- No rotisserie kit compatibility
The Mesa II surprised me. I expected a budget 4-burner with flimsy construction and spotty heat, but Monument Grills has built something genuinely good here. The Advanced Broil Zone lived up to its claim in my tests: I hit 500°F on the center burner in just over five minutes with a thermometer placed on the grate.
Assembly took 28 minutes with a single socket wrench. The instructions are clear and all hardware was included. I’ve assembled grills that took two hours, so this was a relief. The foldable side shelves click into place firmly and hold my cast iron skillet without wobble.
The 304 stainless steel burners are a standout feature at this price. Most competitors use cheaper 430 stainless or aluminized steel that corrodes within a few years. Monument backs these burners with an 8-year warranty, which tells you they expect them to last. The enameled cast iron grates develop a nice seasoning over time and create solid sear marks.
Heat distribution across all four burners is more even than I expected. The corners run slightly cooler, but not dramatically. I grilled 8 chicken thighs at once with consistent internal temperatures across the batch.
Who this grill is best for
Anyone feeding a family of 4-6 who wants four independent burners for zone cooking. The fast preheat makes it great for weeknight grilling when you don’t want to wait 15 minutes for the grill to heat up.
Who should skip this grill
If you want rotisserie capability or a built-in cabinet for propane tank storage, look elsewhere. The Mesa II prioritizes cooking performance over storage features.
3. Monument Grills Mesa400MF — Best for Large Gatherings
Monument Grills 4-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Grill, Silver Stainless Steel Grill Outdoor Patio Garden Barbecue Grill with Clearview® Lid and One Foldable Shelf, Mesa400MF
570 sq in total cooking
4 burners 36000 BTU
Clearview glass lid
Pros
- Largest cooking area in this guide at 570 sq in
- Clearview lid with 750F resistant glass window
- Dual-conical burner design eliminates open flames
- 8-year warranty on stainless burners
- 405 sq in primary plus 165 sq in warming rack
Cons
- Some reports of inconsistent temperature control
- No built-in storage cabinet
If cooking space is your top priority, the Mesa400MF delivers the most square inches in our test group. The 570 sq in total area breaks down into 405 sq in of primary cooking surface plus a 165 sq in warming rack. I fit two full racks of ribs plus chicken thighs with room to spare.
The Clearview lid is genuinely useful. I monitored my brisket without lifting the lid and losing heat. The glass is rated to 750°F, so it handled my high-heat searing without issue. The foldable shelf on one side saves space when you’re not prepping.
The dual-conical burner design is interesting. Instead of straight tubes, the burners have a tapered shape that Monument claims eliminates flare-ups. In my testing, flare-ups were noticeably reduced compared to traditional burner designs, though not eliminated entirely with fatty cuts like ribeye.
Electronic ignition worked every time across 15+ starts. The 36,000 BTU total output spreads across four burners, giving you 9,000 BTU per burner on average. This is sufficient for most cooking, though not as high as some premium grills.
Who this grill is best for
Hosts who regularly cook for 8+ people. The large cooking surface and warming rack let you manage multiple dishes simultaneously. Also great for indirect cooking large cuts like whole chickens or roasts.
Who should skip this grill
If you have a small patio, this grill’s footprint may dominate your outdoor space. Also, if you prefer very precise temperature control for low-and-slow smoking, the Mesa400MF isn’t optimized for that style of cooking.
4. Weber Spirit E-210 — Premium Pick Worth the Stretch
Weber® Spirit® E-210 Gas Grill, Outdoor Cooking, Small Propane Grill, Black
360 sq in cooking area
2 burners 19000 BTU
10-year limited warranty
Pros
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates retain heat evenly
- 10-year limited warranty covers the cookbox
- Snap-Jet ignition system for reliable starts
- Stainless steel Flavorizer Bars enhance flavor
- Weber Works side rails accept snap-on accessories
Cons
- Slightly above 400 at typical retail price
- Limited stock at many retailers
The Weber Spirit E-210 typically retails just above the $400 mark, but I’ve included it because it frequently dips on sale. If you can catch it at the right price, the build quality justifies the stretch. Weber’s reputation for longevity is real, and I’ve seen 10-year-old Spirits still cooking strong.
The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are the standout. They retain heat exceptionally well and develop a patina over time that improves non-stick performance. After seasoning them through five cooking sessions, eggs slide around like a well-seasoned cast iron skillet.
The Snap-Jet ignition system uses individual igniters for each burner. This means if one fails, the other still works. Compare this to many budget grills that use a single igniter for all burners, and you’ll understand why Weber costs more. The Flavorizer Bars catch drippings and vaporize them, adding flavor while protecting the burners.
Cooking area is smaller than competitors at 360 sq in. This works for families of 2-4 but feels tight when cooking for 6+. The two burners do provide independent temperature zones, which helps when searing and finishing at different temperatures.
Who this grill is best for
Someone who values long-term durability over maximum cooking space. If you want a grill that lasts 10+ years with basic maintenance, the Spirit E-210 delivers. Also great for couples or small families who don’t need massive cooking areas.
Who should skip this grill
If you’re on a strict $400 budget, this isn’t the pick. Also, if you regularly cook for large groups, the 360 sq in surface will feel cramped. Look at the Monument options instead.
5. Weber Original Kettle Premium — Best Charcoal Grill Under 400
Weber® Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Black
363 sq in cooking area
Charcoal fueled
10-year limited warranty
Pros
- Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl resist rust for decades
- One-Touch cleaning system simplifies ash removal
- Built-in lid thermometer monitors cooking temperature
- Glass-reinforced nylon handles stay cool to touch
- Rust-resistant aluminum damper for airflow control
Cons
- Assembly can be tricky with leg attachment
- Enamel may scratch if handled roughly
I’ve owned a Weber Original Kettle for 12 years. It still works perfectly. That kind of longevity is what you get when you buy a grill with simple, proven design and quality materials. The Premium version adds a built-in thermometer and handles upgrades over the base model.
Charcoal grilling is a different experience than gas. You get higher cooking temperatures (easily exceeding 600°F), real smoke flavor, and the satisfying ritual of building a fire. The trade-off is longer startup time and less precise temperature control.
The One-Touch cleaning system uses three blades in the bowl that sweep ash into a removable catcher. After my last cook, I cleaned the entire grill in under two minutes. The porcelain-enameled bowl and lid resist rust even after years of weather exposure.
Cooking surface of 363 sq in fits about 13 burgers using Weber’s burger press, or you can fit two racks of ribs with careful placement. The hinged cooking grate (Premium feature) lets you add charcoal without removing the entire grate, which is a real convenience during long cooks.
Who this grill is best for
Purists who want authentic charcoal flavor and don’t mind the extra effort. Also great for anyone who grills occasionally and wants a grill that lasts decades. The simple design has fewer parts to break than complex gas grills.
Who should skip this grill
If you want weeknight convenience with fast startups, charcoal isn’t for you. Lighting takes 20-30 minutes versus 5-10 minutes for gas. Also, if you live in an apartment with fire restrictions, check your local rules before buying.
6. Cuisinart CGG-306 Portable Gas Grill — Best for Tailgating and Camping
Cuisinart Outdoor Gas Grill, 20,000 BTU, Portable, 2-Burner
275 sq in cooking area
2 burners 20000 BTU total
22 lb portable design
Pros
- Quick setup with no tools required
- Two independent 10000 BTU burners
- Lightweight at 22 lbs with locking lid
- Stainless steel construction resists corrosion
- Twist-start ignition for reliable lighting
Cons
- Wind can affect burner performance
- Some quality control inconsistency reported
The Cuisinart CGG-306 is the grill I grab when I’m heading to a tailgate or campsite. At 22 pounds with folding legs and a locking lid, it folds down like a briefcase. I can carry it with one hand and it fits in my car’s trunk alongside a cooler.
Despite the compact size, you get two independent 10,000 BTU burners. I can set one side to high for searing burgers while the other simmers onions low. The 275 sq in cooking surface fits about 8 burgers or 6 chicken breasts, enough for a family of four.
Setup takes about 60 seconds. The legs fold out, you connect a 1-lb propane tank, twist the ignition knob, and you’re cooking. The twist-start ignition worked reliably in my testing, lighting both burners consistently.
Wind is the main weakness. On a breezy day, the burners struggle to maintain high temperatures because the compact design doesn’t shelter the flames. I learned to position the grill with the lid acting as a windbreak, which helps significantly.
Who this grill is best for
Anyone who grills away from home: tailgating, camping, beach trips, or small patios. Apartment dwellers with balcony grilling restrictions often choose this style. Also good as a backup grill for quick weeknight meals.
Who should skip this grill
If you primarily grill at home in a windy area, the burner performance will frustrate you. Also, if you cook for large groups regularly, the 275 sq in surface is too small.
7. Megamaster 3-Burner Gas Grill — Budget Workhorse for Small Families
Megamaster Propane 3 Burner Gas Grill, Foldable Shelves with Warming Rack
434 sq in cooking area
3 burners 30000 BTU total
Foldable side shelves
Pros
- Strong value under 200 price point
- 434 sq in cooking area fits family meals
- Three independent burners for zone cooking
- Foldable side tables for extra prep space
- Porcelain-coated grates for easy cleaning
Cons
- Some quality control issues reported
- Missing parts occasionally reported
- Hard to maintain very low temperatures
At under $200, the Megamaster 3-Burner is the cheapest gas grill in this roundup. That price comes with trade-offs, but for a starter grill or backup unit, it delivers reasonable performance. I assembled it in 45 minutes with basic tools, and all parts were included.
The 434 sq in cooking area is genuinely useful. I fit 12 burgers with room for vegetables on the warming rack. The three burners let you set up different temperature zones, which helps when cooking multiple dishes at once.
Build quality is where the price shows. The frame uses powder-coated steel rather than stainless, and some users report paint flaking after a season or two. The control panel is stainless, which is a smart design choice since that’s the part you touch most.
Heat output is adequate. The 30,000 BTU total across three burners gives you 10,000 BTU per burner, which handles most grilling tasks. Low-temperature cooking (below 250°F) is harder to maintain, so this grill isn’t ideal for low-and-slow smoking.
Who this grill is best for
First-time grill buyers on a tight budget. Also good as a secondary grill for vacation homes or anyone who grills occasionally rather than weekly. The foldable shelves help if storage is limited.
Who should skip this grill
If you want a grill that lasts 10+ years, save up for a Weber. The build quality on budget grills like this typically delivers 3-5 years of regular use. Also, if you do low-temperature smoking regularly, the burner design struggles to maintain those temperatures.
8. Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch — Best for Beginners
Weber® Original Kettle Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Black
363 sq in cooking area
Charcoal fueled
Classic kettle design
Pros
- Simple design with fewer parts to break
- Porcelain-enameled construction lasts decades
- One-Touch cleaning system with ash catcher
- Glass-reinforced nylon handles stay cool
- 10-year limited warranty
Cons
- Some assembly difficulty with legs
- Ash catcher can be messy in wind
The Weber Original Kettle (base model) is the grill I recommend most often to beginners. It does one thing well, lasts forever, and costs less than dinner for two at a nice restaurant. The base model differs from the Premium by omitting the built-in thermometer and using a different handle material.
Charcoal grilling has a learning curve, but this grill makes it forgiving. The dampers control airflow precisely, so you can manage temperature by adjusting how much air reaches the coals. Close the dampers for low-temperature smoking or open them fully for hot searing.
The One-Touch cleaning system works the same as the Premium model. Three blades in the bowl sweep ash into a removable catcher when you turn the handle. Cleaning takes two minutes, which encourages regular maintenance and extends the grill’s life.
At 363 sq in, the cooking area matches the Premium version. I consistently cook for 4-6 people without issues. The simple design means there’s no electronic ignition to fail, no gas lines to leak, and no complicated burner systems to clean.
Who this grill is best for
Anyone new to grilling who wants a reliable starter grill. The simplicity teaches you the fundamentals of fire management without overwhelming you with features. Also great for anyone who grills infrequently and doesn’t want to deal with propane tanks.
Who should skip this grill
If you want weeknight convenience with push-button ignition, this isn’t for you. Charcoal takes 20-30 minutes to light and 10-15 minutes to die down after cooking. Also, if you live somewhere with charcoal restrictions, choose a gas model instead.
How to Choose the Best Grill Under 400
Choosing a grill under $400 comes down to matching your cooking style, space, and fuel preference to the right design. Here’s what matters most when making your decision.
Fuel Type: Gas, Charcoal, or Griddle?
Gas grills offer convenience with fast startups and easy temperature control. Propane models need a tank but ignite in minutes. Charcoal grills deliver higher heat and authentic smoke flavor but require patience and fire management. Flat-top griddles excel at breakfast foods, smash burgers, and vegetables but don’t create traditional grill marks.
If you grill 2-3 times per week and want convenience, gas is the clear winner. If you grill on weekends and prioritize flavor, charcoal delivers the better-tasting food. Griddles work best as a secondary grill or for households that cook breakfast foods frequently.
BTU Output and Cooking Surface Calculations
BTU measures heat output, but more isn’t always better. A good rule of thumb is 80-100 BTU per square inch of cooking surface for gas grills. The Monument Mesa II delivers 525 sq in with 36,000 BTU, giving you roughly 68 BTU per square inch, which is solid for most cooking.
Cooking surface matters more than BTU for most users. A larger surface lets you cook more food at once but requires more fuel to maintain temperature. For a family of four, 400-500 sq in works well. For entertaining 8+ people, look for 500+ sq in.
Build Quality and Materials
Stainless steel and porcelain-enameled steel both resist rust, but stainless holds up longer in harsh weather. Look for 304 stainless on burners (Monument Mesa II uses this), which is the same grade found in premium grills. Porcelain coating on grates and lids creates a non-stick surface that improves with seasoning.
Frame material affects longevity more than appearance. Powder-coated steel will eventually rust at scratches, while stainless steel resists corrosion for years. If you leave your grill outside year-round, prioritize stainless steel components.
Number of Burners and Family Size
Two burners handle cooking for 2-4 people and provide basic zone cooking. Three burners add flexibility for indirect cooking on one side while searing on another. Four burners give you the most control but take longer to heat up and use more fuel.
For couples and small families, two burners are sufficient. For families of 4-6, three or four burners make weeknight cooking easier. If you regularly host gatherings of 8+, prioritize total cooking area over burner count.
Wind Resistance for Outdoor Cooking
Wind is the enemy of consistent grilling. Compact grills like the Cuisinart portable struggle on breezy days because their flames aren’t sheltered. Look for grills with side wind shields, enclosed cookboxes, or hood designs that block wind from the burners.
The Blackstone griddle has built-in wind guards on the burners, which I appreciated during testing. The Monument grills use enclosed cookboxes that help maintain temperature. The Weber kettles rely on their dome-shaped lids to deflect wind.
Assembly Time and Storage
Assembly ranges from 30 minutes (Monument Mesa II) to 2+ hours (larger gas grills). If you’re not handy, factor assembly time into your decision. Many grills arrive in a single box with all hardware included, but instructions vary in clarity.
Storage considerations include overall footprint and whether shelves fold. The Cuisinart portable and Monument Mesa II both have folding shelves that reduce storage space. Fixed-shelf grills need a dedicated spot in your garage or patio.
Warranty and Brand Reliability
Weber offers 10-year warranties on most components, which speaks to their confidence in build quality. Monument Grills provides 8-year warranties on stainless steel burners and 2 years on other components. Budget brands typically offer 1-year warranties.
Brand reliability matters for replacement parts and customer service. Weber, Monument, and Cuisinart all have established parts networks. Lesser-known brands may leave you stuck if a part fails outside warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which gas grills under $400 are the best rated?
Based on our testing, the Blackstone 1883 Omnivore Griddle and Monument Mesa II 410FBZ are the best-rated gas grills under $400. The Blackstone delivers 524 sq in of cooking space with two independent H-style burners and a 4.7 rating from 2000+ reviews. The Monument Mesa II offers four burners reaching 500°F in 5 minutes with a 4.4 rating. Both deliver strong heat distribution and reliable ignition.
Which grill brand is most reliable?
Weber is consistently the most reliable grill brand based on decades of customer feedback and our testing experience. Weber grills routinely last 10+ years with basic maintenance, and their 10-year warranty backs this reputation. Monument Grills is the most reliable budget brand in our tests, with 8-year warranties on stainless steel burners and solid construction. Avoid no-name brands if long-term reliability matters.
What is the best grill for the best price?
The Monument Mesa II 410FBZ delivers the best combination of cooking performance and price in our testing. At under $400, it offers four burners, 525 sq in of cooking area, and 304 stainless steel burners that compete with grills costing twice as much. For charcoal enthusiasts, the Weber Original Kettle delivers decades of reliable grilling at an unbeatable price point.
What are the best gas grills under $500 according to consumer reports?
In our experience and based on aggregated reviews, the Weber Spirit E-210, Blackstone 1883, and Monument Mesa II consistently rank among the best gas grills under $500. The Weber Spirit E-210 leads on build quality with a 10-year warranty, the Blackstone excels at versatility with its griddle format, and the Monument Mesa II offers the best value with four burners and fast preheat at a competitive price.
Final Verdict: Which Grill Under 400 Should You Buy?
After six weeks of testing, three grills stand out from the pack. For most shoppers looking for the best grills under 400 in 2026, the Blackstone 1883 Omnivore Griddle is our top recommendation thanks to its versatility, massive cooking surface, and consistent performance across multiple cooking styles.
If you prefer traditional gas grilling with four independent burners, the Monument Mesa II 410FBZ delivers premium features at a budget price. For charcoal purists who want a grill that lasts decades, the Weber Original Kettle remains the unbeatable choice.
The right grill depends on your cooking style, fuel preference, and how often you grill. Match these factors to the options above, and you’ll find a grill that delivers years of backyard cooking without breaking your $400 budget.
