Types of Grills: Your Ultimate Guide to BBQ Bliss

There are so many types of grills out there that choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. We’ve worked with every kind—charcoal, gas, pellet, electric, kamado, flat tops, wood-fired, and more—and each has its own perks depending on how you like to cook.

Some are all about convenience, others are built for bold flavor, and a few give you the best of both worlds. In this article, we’re breaking down the main types of grills, what makes each one stand out, how to choose the best grill for your needs, and the biggest benefits of grilling in general.

From years of grilling and helping customers find their perfect match, we’ve got the insights to make your next BBQ setup a breeze.

What this article covers:

How Many Different Types of Grills Are There?
9 Main Types of Grills
How to Choose the Best Grill Type for You
Benefits of Using a Grill

How Many Different Types of Grills Are There?

There are more types of grills than most people realize, and each one brings something different to the table. Over the years, we've seen a wide variety, but the most popular options consistently include charcoal, gas, pellet, electric, kamado, flat top, wood-fired, Santa Maria style, hybrid models, multi-fuel systems, and compact portable grills.

Some are built for bold, smoky flavor, while others focus on ease and speed. A few offer serious versatility, letting you grill, smoke, roast, or sear with just one setup.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or keeping things simple, there's a grill that fits your style and taste. It's all about matching your cooking preferences with the grill’s strengths.

9 Main Types of Grills

Charcoal Grills

Charcoal grills are all about that deep, smoky flavor that keeps grill fans coming back for more. They use either charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal, and while they do take a little more time to light and manage, the results are well worth it.

Charcoal grills give you that seared crust and juicy interior that's hard to beat. They’re ideal for weekend warriors who enjoy hands-on grilling and don’t mind getting a little dirty in exchange for incredible flavor.

Gas Grills

When it comes to speed and ease, gas grills win hands down. They heat up in minutes, and with adjustable burners, you get precise control over your cooking temperature. Whether you're searing steaks or gently grilling veggies, a gas grill makes it simple.

In our experience, they're a go-to for weeknight dinners and spontaneous cookouts. Plus, cleanup is a breeze compared to charcoal. If you grill often and love convenience, gas is tough to top.

Electric Grills

An electric grill is the practical pick for city dwellers, condo cooks, and anyone with fire restrictions. Just plug it in, set the temp, and you’re ready to cook. No fire, no fuel tanks, and barely any cleanup.

Electric grills don’t deliver the same smoky flavor as charcoal or pellet options, but they make up for it in speed and simplicity. They're perfect for people who want a hassle-free grill that fits a smaller lifestyle.

Pellet Grills

Pellet grills are the multitaskers of the BBQ world. These grills burn compressed wood pellets and offer the flavor of a wood fire with the push-button simplicity of a gas grill. You can grill, smoke, roast, and even bake on a pellet grill.

They’re perfect for low-and-slow cooking and great for folks who want to set it and forget it. We’ve seen pellet grills grow in popularity fast, especially among grillers who want serious flavor without standing by the fire all day.

Flat Top Grills / Griddles

Flat top grills are like having a restaurant-grade griddle right in your backyard. Think pancakes and bacon in the morning, stir-fry at lunch, and smash burgers for dinner—all on one surface. There's no grill grate, so everything cooks evenly on a flat surface.

Cleanup is easy, and the versatility is unmatched. Flat tops are awesome for families or entertainers who want to cook a wide variety of foods fast.

Wood-Fired Grills

Wood-fired grills deliver unmatched flavor and old-school BBQ vibes. They burn real wood logs—no gas, no pellets, just pure hardwood fire. The flavor is bold and natural, and the cooking process is hands-on and satisfying.

These grills do take more time and skill to master, but for flavor enthusiasts, they’re a dream come true. We've worked with these a lot and can say they’re best for people who love the ritual as much as the results.

Santa Maria Style

Santa Maria grills are a nod to California’s grilling heritage. They feature a crank-operated grate that raises and lowers over an open flame. This gives you incredible control over heat and cooking time.

Originally designed for tri-tip, they’re great for any meat you want to cook over an open fire. They make grilling feel interactive and fun, perfect for people who enjoy the show as much as the meal.

Kamado Grills/Ceramic

Kamado grills are heavy-duty ceramic beasts that excel in heat retention and fuel efficiency. These oval-shaped powerhouses can hit high temps for searing or hold low heat for hours of smoking.

We've grilled, smoked, and even baked pizzas in these, and they never disappoint. Ceramic grills are built to last and perform in all weather. If you're looking for a premium grill that can do it all and do it well, Kamados are worth every penny.

Hybrid Grills

Hybrid grills give you options. You can fire up charcoal for smoky ribs one day, then switch to gas for quick burgers the next. Some even let you use both fuels at the same time. A lot of grillers love this kind of flexibility – ourselves included. Hybrid grills are a smart pick if you don’t want to be locked into one style or fuel type.

Multi-Fuel Systems

Multi-fuel systems take hybrid grilling a step further by adding pellets or electric heat into the mix. Imagine combining the control of gas, the flavor of charcoal, and the versatility of pellets—all in one unit.

These are serious machines for serious grillers. They’re fantastic for anyone who likes to try new techniques and recipes without being tied to a single setup.

Portable Grills

Portable grills prove that you don’t need a backyard to grill like a pro. These compact units are perfect for picnics, camping, tailgates, or even small balconies.

Despite their size, many portable grills deliver impressive heat and cooking space. We’ve seen our customers take theirs everywhere, from beaches to mountain campsites. If you like to take your BBQ on the road, a portable grill is your best friend.

How to Choose the Best Grill Type for You

Cooking Style

Start with what you love to cook. If slow-smoked brisket or ribs are your thing, pellet and kamado grills are perfect. They maintain low, steady heat for hours and are great for smoking.

Love a quick steak dinner after work? Gas or electric grills will have you cooking in minutes. Planning to cook breakfast, lunch, and dinner outdoors? A flat top might be your new best friend.

We always recommend thinking about the meals you enjoy most—your grill should match your go-to style, not work against it.

Flavor Preference

Let’s talk taste. If you’re after that rich, smoky flavor with a bit of char, charcoal and wood-fired grills deliver it in spades. Pellet grills also offer a mild smoke flavor with more control.

Want a clean, simple taste where the seasoning shines? Gas and electric grills keep the flavors light and pure. Your palate plays a huge role in finding the right grill—some love bold and smoky, others prefer crisp and clean.

Convenience

Grilling should be fun, not a chore. Gas and electric grills win big here—they heat up fast, are easy to use, and require minimal cleanup. Great for busy weeknights or last-minute BBQs.

Charcoal and wood-fired grills take longer to prep and require more hands-on attention, but the payoff is in the flavor. Pellet grills hit a sweet spot, combining convenience with great taste. We always suggest thinking about how much time you want to spend setting up versus cooking.

Space And Portability

Not everyone has a big backyard, and that’s totally fine. If you’ve got a patio, balcony, or like to grill on the go, portable grills or compact electrics are the way to go. They’re easy to move and store.

If space isn’t an issue and you’re planning a full outdoor kitchen setup, go big with a kamado, pellet, or gas grill with all the bells and whistles. We’ve seen it all—from tailgate-ready minis to full stainless-steel islands—just make sure your grill fits your space and your lifestyle.

Budget

There’s a grill for every budget. You can get a solid portable or entry-level charcoal grill without breaking the bank. Mid-range gas and pellet models offer great features and durability for the price.

Higher-end grills like kamados or multi-fuel systems come with bigger price tags but also last longer and offer more cooking flexibility.

We always tell customers to think about what features matter most, then find the best quality within that price range. You’ll get more satisfaction from a well-matched grill than from overspending or skimping on essentials.

Benefits of Using a Grill

Enhanced Flavor

Grilling brings out flavors you just can't get from the stovetop or oven. The intense heat helps caramelize the outside of your food through the Maillard reaction, giving meats that crave-worthy crust and deep, savory taste.

Add charcoal or wood to the mix, and you unlock smoky layers that make grilled food unforgettable. We’ve found that even simple ingredients taste better when grilled. The flavor difference is real, and it’s why so many people fall in love with grilling.

Healthier Cooking

Grilling isn’t just delicious—it can be healthier, too. When you grill, fats naturally drip away from meats as they cook. That means fewer calories and less grease compared to frying or sautéing. You’re not adding extra oils or butter to the pan, either.

Plus, grilled veggies retain more nutrients and taste amazing with just a touch of seasoning. In our experience, people who start grilling tend to eat cleaner without even trying.

Versatility

Grills today can do so much more than just sear a steak. Many models let you smoke a brisket, bake a pizza, roast veggies, or even make desserts. With the right setup, you can cook breakfast, lunch, and dinner all on one grill.

Flat tops are perfect for pancakes and eggs, while kamados can roast a chicken or bake bread. The variety of meals you can make on a grill often surprises first-time buyers. It’s a full outdoor kitchen in one unit, and that versatility makes grilling a year-round favorite.

Social Experience

There’s something special about gathering around a grill. Whether it’s a family cookout, a casual hangout with friends, or a neighborhood BBQ, grilling turns cooking into a social event. People love to linger by the grill, chatting, laughing, and anticipating what’s cooking.

We’ve seen countless bonds formed over a shared plate of ribs or burgers. It’s more than just food—it’s a vibe, and grilling makes it easy to connect with others while you cook.

Conclusion

Choosing the right grill really comes down to your cooking style, flavor preferences, available space, and budget. Whether you're drawn to the bold taste of charcoal, the convenience of gas, the versatility of a pellet grill, or the portability of a compact setup, there’s a perfect match out there for you.

We’ve seen firsthand how the right grill can transform everyday meals into something memorable and bring people together in the process. No matter what kind of grilling experience you're after, knowing the types of grills and how they differ helps you make a smart, satisfying choice.

Ready to fire up something great? Browse our expert-picked selection at DDR BBQ Supply and find the grill that fits you best.

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Visit Us at our Retail Store or Online BBQ Store

Our online BBQ store is open 24-7 but if you'd rather shop in person, visit our retail store in Northwest Arkansas. It's packed with top-quality grills, smokers, BBQ rubs, sauces, accessories, and expert advice.

Whether you're looking for something specific or just want to explore the best in BBQ gear, we’re here to help you cook with confidence. You’ll find top-quality grills, smokers, BBQ rubs, sauces, accessories, and expert advice you won't find online. Stop by and experience hands-on shopping the way it should be!

We're located at 14696 US Hwy 62, Garfield, AR 72732. We're open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM. Come pay us a visit!

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