Backyard cooking is more exciting when the right grill is at the center of it all, which is why finding the best grills matters. We've seen how the choice can completely change how people cook, whether it's fast weeknight dinners, long weekend smokes, or big family gatherings.
Some prefer the convenience and power of gas, others love the flavor and steady heat of pellet smokers, and more and more are building outdoor kitchens that need a reliable built-in.
In this guide, we'll highlight six standout grills and explain what makes each one special, giving you the insight to choose a grill that matches your style, space, and budget.
What this article covers:
Best-Rated Grills
There are plenty of options out there, but a handful of grills consistently stand above the rest. These six models cover a range of styles, sizes, and features, giving you choices that fit everything from fast weeknight cooking to all-day smoking or custom outdoor kitchens:
1. Napoleon Prestige PRO 665
The Napoleon Prestige PRO 665 is one of the best gas grills that's serious about size, performance, and versatility. We often recommend this for folks who host large groups regularly, whether that's family gatherings, block parties, or frequent cookouts.
It has 8 burners delivering about 99,000 BTUs of heat. It includes both infrared side and rear burners, so you get strong searing zones and options for rotisserie or indirect cooking. The cooking grid material is thick stainless steel (9.5 mm), with the Wave™ pattern that gives nice sear marks and helps keep heat more even.
The build is solid, all stainless steel, with extras like LED-illuminated knobs, a smoker tray built in, an integrated rotisserie, and decent prep space.
2. Napoleon Phantom Prestige 500
The Napoleon Phantom Prestige 500 blends smart connectivity with high-end performance. It's equipped with four main burners plus a rear infrared rotisserie burner and an infrared side burner, giving you multiple cooking zones.
The stainless steel cast cooking grids are durable and designed to retain heat, while the 82,000 BTU output covers everything from quick sears to slow roasts. WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity let you monitor and control temperatures directly from your phone through Napoleon's app.
The matte black Phantom finish gives it a distinct look that resists fingerprints and adds style to any patio. It's perfect for cooks who want precision and tech-driven convenience in one package.
3. Myron Mixon BARQ-H2O Pellet Smoker
This smoker runs on wood pellets, which provide steady heat and deep, authentic smoke flavor. What sets it apart is the patented H2O system that incorporates a water pan, helping stabilize temperatures and prevent meat from drying out during long cooks.
With a heavy steel build and digital controls, it's reliable and consistent for ribs, brisket, and pulled pork, making it one of the best smoker grills on the market.
The cooking chamber is roomy enough for big cuts, while the pellet hopper ensures hours of cooking without constant refueling. For backyard pitmasters who want competition-worthy results without babysitting a fire, this model is a standout choice.
4. Green Mountain Grills LEDGE Prime 2.0 WiFi Pellet Grill
If you want pellet smoker versatility with smarter temperature control, the Green Mountain Grills LEDGE Prime 2.0 is worth considering.
This model uses WiFi connectivity through the GMG app, allowing you to monitor and control temps remotely. It comes with two integrated meat probes so you can track multiple cuts at once.
The temperature range is broad, from low-and-slow smoking to higher heat for finishing with a crisp sear. The cooking chamber design improves airflow for more consistent cooking.
Practical touches include a glass viewing window, a hopper cleanout system, and USB ports for charging devices. Built with durability in mind, it's a versatile choice for those who want hands-on flavor with hands-off control.
5. Napoleon Built-in Prestige PRO 825 RBI
For built-in installations, the Napoleon Built-in Prestige PRO 825 RBI offers a huge amount of cooking space.
This grill features nine burners with a total output of 106,000 BTUs. There's a dual-cooking setup, including a main grill head and a smaller infrared searing station. Rear infrared burners give you rotisserie options, while stainless steel grates ensure consistent heating across the expansive surface.
The build is full stainless steel, designed for long-term durability in a fixed outdoor kitchen. With integrated lighting, control knob illumination, and precision control, it's as user-friendly as it is powerful. For serious backyard chefs creating a custom setup, the PRO 825 RBI is a top-tier choice.
6. Napoleon Built Prestige PRO 665 RB
If the 825 feels like too much but you still want a built-in grill, the Napoleon Built Prestige PRO 665 RB is a slightly smaller but still premium option.
This Napoleon model has seven burners and produces 86,000 BTUs in total. The rear infrared burner makes rotisserie cooking simple, while the main burners and stainless steel grates provide plenty of space for everyday meals and larger gatherings. Stainless steel construction, interior grill lights, and Night Light knobs with a glow feature add both function and safety.
The cooking grids use Napoleon's signature Wave™ design for even heat distribution and strong sear marks. It's compact enough to fit in more spaces but still powerful enough for those who entertain often. For a built-in that blends strength and practicality, the PRO 665 RB is an excellent fit.
Conclusion
So where does that leave you?
If you host large gatherings and want maximum versatility, the Prestige PRO 665 RSIB or the Built Prestige PRO 825 RBI are excellent choices. If you want advanced features with a more manageable size, the Phantom Prestige 500 Connected RSIB is ideal.
If you're focused on smoke flavor and slow cooking, go with the BARQ-H2O or the GMG LEDGE Prime 2.0. For built-in outdoor kitchens, the Napoleon Built Prestige PRO 665 RB or 825 RBI stand out.
At DDR BBQ Supply, we believe the best grill is the one that fits how you cook, not just what looks good. Use this guide, match it to your cooking style, space, and budget, and you'll find a grill that serves you well for years.
Explore our full collection of BBQ grills and BBQ essentials today.
Best Grills (FAQs)
What's the easiest grill type for beginners?
Gas grills or the best flat top grills are often the easiest starting point because they light quickly, heat evenly, and are simple to control. Pellet grills are also beginner-friendly if slow cooking is the main focus.
As you sharpen your skills, you can try more involved grills, like the best charcoal grill.
How do I know what grill size I need?
Think about how many people you usually cook for. Around 400–500 square inches of cooking space is enough for a family of four, while 600+ square inches is better for hosting larger groups.
How long does a grill typically last?
With proper care, a quality grill can last 10 to 15 years. Regular cleaning, covering it when not in use, and replacing worn parts like burners or grates can extend its life even longer.