The 5 Best Grills of 2026: Tested & Reviewed
Here is our definitive guide to the best grills for 2026, tested and vetted by experts.
We have over 35 years of experience at the pit, in the shop, and on the competition circuit. From high-tech smart grills to traditional charcoal beasts, we’ve vetted the 2026 lineup to ensure only the 'tried-and-true' made the cut.
THE BEST GRILLS AND SMOKERS
Best for those who want great flavor but have zero time to babysit a fire. If you value high-tech convenience without sacrificing performance, this is your grill. The Phantom 500 is engineered for the "set it and forget it" lifestyle, featuring robust WiFi and App control that lets you monitor your cook from anywhere. It’s the ultimate choice for achieving professional results on a tight schedule.
Best for the enthusiast who believes gas is cheating. For those who crave the ritual of wood and charcoal, this offset smoker delivers the deepest smoke ring and authentic flavor. It offers total manual control over airflow, allowing you to master the craft of traditional barbecue. This is more than a grill; it’s a commitment to the art of low-and-slow cooking.
Best for the host who throws the biggest parties on the block. When you need sheer size, speed, and unwavering consistency, the Prestige PRO is the undisputed heavy hitter. Designed to feed a crowd with ease, it offers the massive surface area and rapid heat-up times required for large-scale entertaining. This is the professional-grade workhorse that ensures every guest leaves satisfied.
Best for the charcoal purist who wants classic flavor and precise control. If you refuse to settle for basic backyard grills, the 605 is your perfect match. Built for serious charcoal grilling, it delivers powerful high-heat searing and steady heat control with the durability and stability of a premium cart. It’s a dependable centerpiece in any pitmaster’s arsenal.
Best for the cook who wants maximum performance for the price. The Peak Prime 2.0 delivers impressive wood-fired flavor whether you’re slow-smoking brisket or grilling dinner on a weeknight. Built with smart controls and dependable pellet technology, it focuses on consistent heat, clean smoke, and reliable results without unnecessary extras. It proves you don’t have to overspend to get a powerful, versatile pellet grill.
The Best "Autopilot" Gas Grill
SPECIFICATIONS
- BTU Output: 82,000 total
- Burners: 4 Main, 1 Infrared Rear, 1 Infrared Side
- Cooking Area: 900 sq. in. (Up to 31 burgers)
- Grids: Cast Stainless Steel Iconic WAVE™
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth via Napoleon Home App
- Dimensions: 50.25" H x 66.25" W x 26.50" D
TODAY'S BEST DEALS
The Phantom Prestige® 500 Connected is the ultimate grill for those value remote control. With its bold matte design, pro-level infrared searing, and smart technology that takes the guesswork out of the cook, it is a powerful, durable, and stylish beast.
The Napoleon Phantom Prestige 500 Connected RSIB is the highest-rated smart grill in our database. It outperforms competitors through a 5-inch LCD display and the integrated "Cook Assistant" interface.
Design & Build: The matte black finish replaces standard stainless steel with a modern, tactical aesthetic. Cast stainless steel grates provide superior heat retention. These grates eliminate the rust and maintenance issues found in previous generations.
Price and value: At $2,649, this grill is a long-term investment in durability. It features 16-gauge stainless steel burners and a heavy-duty rotisserie kit. You save on external hardware because the unit includes three built-in probe ports and integrated Wi-Fi tech.
Grilling performance: Grills thrive on heat consistency, and the Phantom excels in this area. Napoleon replaces the usual warming rack with a versatile grilling rack ideal for appetizers and wings. Plus, the "Sizzle Zone" infrared side burner reaches 1,800°F in seconds, delivering steakhouse-quality crusts that standard gas burners can't achieve.
Connected Tech: The Napoleon Home app syncs high-temp alerts and timers directly to the grill’s LCD. Our testing confirmed a stable Wi-Fi connection at a 50-foot range. You can monitor a slow-roasting chicken from your kitchen while prepping sides.
Verdict: The Phantom Prestige 500 Connected dominates in design, thermal power, and smart integration. It is a luxury investment for the griller who demands a "forever grill." You get professional-grade polish and a massive performance ceiling for your money.
Buy It If You want a "Connected" lifestyle
The Wi-Fi/Bluetooth integration allows for remote temp alerts, fuel level monitoring, and cook guidance.
- ✅ You hate grate maintenance: The cast stainless steel grids offer the heat retention of cast iron but are virtually rust-proof and require zero seasoning.
- ✅ You crave the "Sizzle": The infrared side burner hits 1,800°F in seconds, providing a professional crust that standard gas burners can't touch.
- ✅ You grill at night: The SafetyGlow™ knobs change from blue to red when gas is on, providing a striking look and a vital safety check in the dark.
Don’t Buy It If You Are On a Budget
This is a luxury investment at ~$2,649; the standard (non-connected) models offer similar cooking power for much less.
- ❌ You prefer a classic look: The silky matte black finish is bold and modern; if you prefer traditional polished stainless steel, the PRO series is a better fit.
The Bottom Line
The Phantom Prestige 500 Connected is a high-performance powerhouse that balances aggressive styling with intelligent features. While you pay a premium for the matte finish and the "Connected" tech, the inclusion of cast stainless steel grates and a lifetime warranty makes it one of the best long-term investments for any serious outdoor cook.
Napoleon Phantom 500 Max Score Card
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Hits 1,800°F on the side burner; exceptional heat retention. |
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| Technology | Wi-Fi/Bluetooth integration and built-in LCD are industry-leading. |
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| Build Quality | Cast stainless steel grids are "indestructible"; matte finish is sleek but requires care. |
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| Ease of Use | 90% one-spark ignition and app guidance make grilling foolproof. |
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| Assembly | Complex build; instructions can be "fiddly" and time-consuming. |
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| Value | A premium $2,649 investment, but includes a lifetime warranty and full rotisserie kit. |
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The Best Smoker for Purists
SPECIFICATIONS
- Cooking Space: 1,334 sq/in standard; up to 2,001 sq/in maximum.
- Weight: 520 lbs of heavy-duty, military-grade insulated steel.
- Fuel Capacity: 12 lb rounded charcoal chute for long, consistent burns.
- Burn Time: Up to 14 hours on a single load depending on cook temperature.
- Dimensions: 48.4” W x 29.6” D x 47.75” H.
- Included Tech: FREE Fireboard Fan system including fan, controller, and probes.
TODAY'S BEST DEALS
The Myron Mixon MMS-G9 Gravity-Fed Smoker delivers competition-grade results through industrial engineering and passive heat management. It provides a massive 1,334 square inches of cooking space within a compact, patio-friendly footprint.
The MMS-G9 utilizes a vertical charcoal column to feed the firebox via gravity. As the bottom layer of fuel turns to ash, new coals drop into the strike zone automatically. This mechanical simplicity eliminates the need for augers or complex moving parts, providing a reliable path to authentic wood-fired flavor.
Design & Build: The G9 features military-grade insulation and a double-sealed fire door with a heavy-duty slam latch. This thermal envelope maximizes fuel efficiency and temperature stability in any weather. Laser-cut stainless steel racks and a 12lb rounded charcoal chute ensure consistent airflow and easy maintenance.
Price and value: At $4,999, this smoker is a professional-tier investment for serious pitmasters. The unit includes a free Fireboard Fan system (fan, controller, and probes) to automate temperature control. Its high-grade construction resists the warping and heat loss common in lower-tier gravity units.
Grilling performance: The gravity-fed system provides 8 to 12 hours of burn time on a single load of charcoal. An integrated removable water pan maintains a high-moisture environment for superior bark development and juicy proteins. You get the flavor profile of an offset smoker with the ease of a pellet grill.
Connected Tech: The included Fireboard system allows you to monitor and control your pit via smartphone. This tech manages the variable-speed fan to maintain precise target temperatures within a few degrees. You can track internal meat temps and adjust airflow remotely for total cook transparency.
Verdict: The Myron Mixon G9 wins top marks for thermal efficiency and "set-and-forget" reliability. It is a premium, heavy-duty machine designed for those who refuse to compromise on authentic charcoal flavor. You are buying a professional-grade command center that produces world-class BBQ with minimal intervention.
Buy It If You want a "Set-and-Forget" Traditional Experience
You want the flavor of an offset smoker without the constant labor of manual fire-tending.
- ✅ You crave consistency: The gravity-fed system keeps heat levels steady automatically for competition-ready results.
- ✅ You value thermal efficiency: Military-grade insulation and double-sealed doors lock in heat even in harsh conditions.
- ✅ You want pro-grade tech: The integrated Fireboard system allows for remote temperature alerts and monitoring via smartphone.
Don’t Buy It If You Are On On a Tight Budget
- ❌ This is a luxury investment: Priced at $4,999, it is designed for the serious pitmaster seeking a "forever" grill.
- ❌ You prefer the speed of gas: Charcoal and wood chunks require more startup time and manual lighting compared to gas burners.
- ❌ You have limited patio strength: At 520 lbs, this unit requires a permanent, reinforced location.
The Bottom Line
The Myron Mixon MMS-G9 is the "overbuilt" solution for the pitmaster who values precision and sleep. It bridges the gap between manual fire-tending and digital automation, offering the best temperature stability in the charcoal market.
Myron Mixon Gravity Fed Smoker G9 Score Card
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Exceptional heat retention and consistent "set-and-forget" heat management. |
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| Technology | Includes free Fireboard Fan system for automated temperature control. |
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| Build Quality | Features military-grade insulation, double-sealed fire doors, and a slam latch. |
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| Versatility | Capable of high-capacity cooks including 100 jumbo wings or 9 whole chickens. |
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| Ease of Use | Gravity-fed system removes the need for constant fire maintenance. |
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| Value | Professional-tier investment backed by a premium build and a 15-year warranty. |
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The Best Gas Grill for Parties
SPECIFICATIONS
- BTU Output: 99,000 total across 8 burners
- Cooking Area: 1,140 sq. in. (Up to 42 burgers)
- Grids: 9.5mm Stainless Steel Iconic WAVE™
- Lighting: RGB Spectrum NIGHT LIGHT™ with SafetyGlow
- Special Features: Integrated wood chip smoker tray & interior lights
- Warranty: President’s Limited Lifetime Bumper-to-Bumper
TODAY'S BEST DEALS
The Napoleon Prestige PRO™ 665 is a masterpiece of engineering, designed for those who view outdoor cooking as a serious craft. This grill offers a staggering 99,000 BTUs and enough cooking space to host the entire neighborhood. With a built-in smoker tray and a dedicated infrared "Sizzle Zone," it’s more than a grill - it’s a complete outdoor kitchen.
The Napoleon Prestige PRO™ 665 RSIB officially takes the top spot from its competitors to become the best high-capacity grill we've tested. While other luxury grills offer size, the PRO 665 offers surgical precision, featuring a total of 8 burners that allow for unparalleled zone cooking and versatility.
Design & Build: Constructed with high-grade shimmering stainless steel, this grill provides a commercial-kitchen aesthetic. The 9.5mm stainless steel WAVE™ grates are virtually indestructible. They deliver professional sear marks while resisting the elements.
Price and value: This premium model is a lifetime investment. It includes dual-level sear plates, a heavy-duty rotisserie kit, and an integrated smoker tube. This built-in smoker eliminates the need for a separate pellet or charcoal unit.
Grilling performance: The PRO 665 dominates heat management with 99,000 BTUs. The "Sizzle Zone" side burner hits 1,800°F in seconds for steakhouse results. An infrared rear burner provides consistent radiant heat for perfect rotisserie prime rib.
Interior & Style: RGB Spectrum NIGHT LIGHT™ knobs offer custom color styling and safety. The SafetyGlow feature turns knobs red when gas is active. Combined with interior halogen lights, this unit is the premier choice for night entertaining.
Verdict: The Prestige PRO 665 leads the market in capacity, durability, and specialized features. It is a commercial-grade centerpiece for the griller who demands unmatched power and polish.
Buy It If You Feed a Crowd
With over 1,000 square inches of space, you can host the whole neighborhood without cooking in shifts.
- ✅ You want built-in versatility: The integrated smoker tray allows you to add wood-fired flavor to a gas grill without extra attachments.
- ✅ You want "Overbuilt" quality: The 9.5mm stainless steel grids are among the thickest in the industry, offering incredible sear marks and lifelong durability.
- ✅ Nighttime style matters: The proximity lighting projects the Napoleon logo on the floor when you approach, and the knobs can cycle through a full rainbow of colors.
Don’t Buy It If You You have Limited Deck Space
This is a massive unit (76.75" wide) that requires a large, dedicated footprint.
- ❌ You are a tech-only buyer: While it has great lighting, it lacks the Wi-Fi/Bluetooth app connectivity found in the Phantom Connected series.
The Bottom Line
The Prestige PRO 665 is the ultimate centerpiece for the outdoor chef who wants it all. It bridges the gap between a standard grill and a full outdoor kitchen, offering enough power to sear at 1,800°F and enough subtlety to smoke low-and-slow. It is a significant investment, but backed by a lifetime warranty, it is designed to be the only grill you'll ever need.
Napoleon Prestige PRO 665 Gas Grill Max Score Card
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Massive 99,000 BTU output; heats to 700°F in minutes. |
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| Versatility | Integrated smoker tray and 1,800°F Sizzle Zone side burner. |
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| Build Quality | "Built like a tank" with 304 stainless steel and 9.5mm grids. |
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| Ease of Use | Simple JETFIRE™ ignition; however, larger size requires more cleaning. |
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| Assembly | Comes with cart fully assembled; only side shelves require installation. |
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| Value | High entry price but offers professional features and a lifetime warranty. |
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The Best Charcoal Grill for Versatility
SPECIFICATIONS
- Fuel Type: Charcoal
- Cooking Area: 850 sq. in. total (Up to 37 burgers)
- Grids: Porcelain-Coated Cast Iron Iconic WAVE™
- Heat Control: 6-position adjustable charcoal bed
- Special Features: Rear charcoal rotisserie burner & front-loading fuel door
- Warranty: 15 Year Limited
TODAY'S BEST DEALS
The Napoleon Professional 605 Charcoal Grill combines traditional live-fire flavor with premium gas-grill architecture. It features 850 square inches of cooking space and a full stainless steel build for the ultimate charcoal "command center."
The Napoleon Professional 605 Charcoal Grill officially takes the top spot for live-fire enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on build quality. While most charcoal grills are simple kettles, Napoleon has built a massive stainless steel station that offers the same "command center" feel as their Prestige gas series.
Design & Build: The 605 features a heavy-duty LIFT EASE™ roll-top lid and porcelain-coated cast iron grids. These WAVE™ grates offer superior heat retention for steakhouse sear marks. A front-access door allows you to add fuel or smoking wood without losing internal heat.
Price and value: At $1,649, this unit is a lifetime investment backed by a 15-year warranty. It includes a rear charcoal rotisserie burner - a rare feature in the charcoal market. This high-grade stainless steel build resists corrosion better than any standard kettle.
Grilling performance: The adjustable charcoal bed moves to six different heights for total heat control. You can transition from a 700°F sear to a steady 225°F smoke. The rear burner allows for authentic, smoky rotisserie results that gas units cannot replicate.
Ease of Maintenance: A dedicated slide-out ash and drip pan simplifies cleanup. Our testing confirmed that the stainless steel cabinet remains clean even after long sessions with heavy lump charcoal.
Verdict: The Professional 605 leads in versatility and durability for charcoal purists. While it requires more skill than gas models, it offers unmatched power for those who want a "forever grill" for spit-roasting and searing.
Buy It If You Want Total Heat Precision
The 6-position adjustable bed lets you raise the coals for high-heat searing or drop them low for slow roasting.You love rotisserie: This is one of the only grills in existence with a dedicated rear charcoal burner specifically for authentic smoky spit-roasting.
✅ You need to refuel mid-cook: The front-loading door lets you add fresh charcoal or wood chunks without ever lifting the lid or moving your food.
✅ You want durability: The heavy-duty 304 stainless steel construction offers a commercial-grade lifespan that standard charcoal grills can't match.
Don’t Buy It If You You Want "Push-Button" Ease
Managing charcoal requires more time and attention than a gas or pellet unit.
❌ You have a small patio: At over 67 inches wide, this is a large, heavy-duty station that requires significant space.
The Bottom Line
The Professional 605 is a rare beast that combines the rugged, authentic flavor of charcoal with the luxury and build quality of a professional gas grill. While it requires more hands-on effort than a pellet or gas unit, the results - and the 15-year warranty - make it an incredible long-term investment for the serious live-fire cook.
Napoleon Professional 605 Max Score Card
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Exceptional heat control via 6-position bed; unmatched charcoal flavor. |
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| Versatility | Only unit with a rear charcoal rotisserie burner; great for searing or smoking. |
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| Build Quality | All-weather stainless steel construction; far superior to standard kettles. |
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| Ease of Use | Requires fire management skills; not as "set-and-forget" as gas or pellet. |
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| Cleanup | Slide-out ash pan makes a messy job significantly easier. |
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| Value | High price for charcoal, but the 15-year warranty and pro-features offer long-term value. |
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The Best Value Pellet Grill
SPECIFICATIONS
- Fuel Type: Wood Pellets
- Cooking Area: 658 sq. in. (Plus optional RACKT™ expansion)
- Temp Range: 150°F – 550°F (5° increments)
- Hopper Capacity: 18 lb with viewing window
- Power: 12V Direct Power (AC/DC Versatility)
- Connectivity: WiFi Smart Control via GMG PRIME 2.0 App
TODAY'S BEST DEALS
The Green Mountain Grills (GMG) Peak Prime 2.0 is the most innovative pellet grill in its class. It utilizes a 12V Direct Power system and a hybrid chamber design to deliver unrivaled temperature stability and smoke circulation.
The Green Mountain Grills Peak Prime 2.0 officially takes the top spot for versatility in the pellet market. While other brands are still using standard AC power, GMG has moved to 12V Direct Power, which allows for micro-adjustments to the variable-speed fan and auger - giving you the most stable temperatures we've seen in this price bracket.
Design & Build: The redesigned hybrid chamber and peaked lid provide maximum clearance for vertical roasting or high-volume rib cooks. New RACKT™ technology allows for easy cooking space customization. A hopper viewing window and smartphone-linked low-pellet alarm ensure you never run out of fuel mid-cook.
Price and value: At $1,199, this model offers "Swiss Army Knife" versatility. The 12V system increases fuel efficiency, lowering long-term operating costs. Its modular design supports high-value add-ons like a 1,800°F infrared SideBURN™ or a dedicated pizza oven attachment.
Grilling performance: The Venturi-style firebox creates a combustion "cyclone" for clean, consistent smoke. This grill transitions from low-and-slow smoking to 90-second artisan pizzas with the optional pizza oven insert. The Ashvac firepot system simplifies post-cook cleanup, solving the biggest pain point of traditional pellet grills.
Connected Tech: The GMG PRIME 2.0 App supports custom cooking profiles and dual-probe monitoring. During testing, the Server Mode remained perfectly stable. This allows you to trigger "Keep Warm" mode remotely from your phone if a cook finishes while you are away.
Verdict: The Peak Prime 2.0 leads the pellet market in innovation and customizability. While the power-down sequence requires a brief learning curve, it is the premier choice for the "future-proof" pitmaster. You get professional-grade control and massive culinary flexibility for your investment.
Buy It If You Want Total Remote Control
The 12V system and new app allow for incredible temp stability and monitoring from your couch or the office.
✅ You love to customize: Between the pizza oven, rotisserie, and SideBURN™ infrared station, this is the most modular grill in its class.
✅ You value easy cleanup: The Ashvac firepot cleanout port means you can vacuum out ash in seconds without tearing the whole grill apart.
✅ You need vertical space: The "Peaked" lid design provides extra height for large turkeys or standing chicken roasters that flat-top grills can't fit.
Don’t Buy It If You Are a charcoal purist
While it provides great smoke flavor, it won't give you the same intense sear as a dedicated charcoal unit without adding the SideBURN™ accessory.
❌ You have limited porch space: This is a large, heavy-duty unit (212 lbs) that requires a permanent, sturdy spot on your patio.
The Bottom Line
The Peak Prime 2.0 is a high-tech "Swiss Army Knife" that balances ease of use with professional results. While you pay for the advanced electronics and the 12V system, the ability to expand the grill into a full outdoor cooking station makes it one of the most future-proof investments for any backyard cook.
Green Mountain Grills Peak Prime 2.0 Max Score Card
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
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| Performance | 12V Direct Power provides unmatched temp stability. |
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| Versatility | Huge accessory ecosystem (Pizza oven, SideBURN™, RACKT™). |
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| Build Quality | Strong reinforced grates and heavy-duty wheeled base. |
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| Ease of Use | Simple ash cleanout; app provides total remote control. |
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| Tech Features | Dual probes, WiFi, USB port, and internal grill light. |
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| Value | Feature-packed for the price; effectively replaces multiple grills. |
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Texas-Born. BBQ Bred.
With over 35 years of smoking experience, we started DDR BBQ Supply because we know what it takes to create championship-level BBQ. We manufacture heavy-duty grill grates, custom steel signs, and BBQ tools in the USA, while curating premium grills, smokers, rubs, and sauces from the best brands. Every product meets the same standards we use in our own cooks—we don't sell flimsy gear because we wouldn't use it ourselves.
