Types of Grills: A Beginner’s Guide to Choosing the Right One

Published: 30 May 2025

Are you new to grilling and not sure where to start? The wide range of grill choices can feel overwhelming. From gas to pellet to kamado, each grill has its pros and cons. In this guide, we’ll explore 21 common types of grills. I’ll explain how they differ when to use them and help you pick the perfect one for your backyard setup.

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Types of Grills

When it comes to outdoor cooking, there are many types of grills to choose from. Each grill has its strengths, flavors, and cooking styles. Let’s break down the most popular options to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.

Here is a quick list of types of grills:

Gas Grill
Charcoal Grill
Charcoal Kettle Grill
Electric Grill
Pellet Grill
Kamado Grill
Ceramic Grill
Infrared Grill
Portable Grill
Smoker Grill
Natural Gas Grill
Built-in Grill
Flat Top Grill
Hybrid Grill
Indoor Grill
Tabletop Grill
Disposable Grill
Barbecue Grill
Hibachi Grill
Shop Built-in Grill
Large Grill

Let’s understand the above-mentioned grill types one by one.

various types of grill such as pallet-electric-gas-kamado grill

1. Gas Grill

Gas grills are easy to use and heat up quickly. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners or burgers on the fly. A popular pick like the Weber Genesis offers even cooking, side burners, and reliable ignition — all features that are great for beginners.

2. Charcoal Grill

Charcoal grills deliver that deep, smoky BBQ flavor. They require more time and cleanup, but the taste is worth it. If you love traditional grilling, a sturdy model like the Char-Griller Classic is a great choice.

3. Charcoal Kettle Grill

With its round shape and vent control, a kettle grill gives excellent airflow and heat control. It’s ideal for slow grilling or quick sears. The Weber Original Kettle remains a timeless favorite for backyard BBQs.

4. Electric Grill

Electric grills are perfect for small spaces or apartment living. Just plug it in and start cooking — no flames or fuel needed. The George Foreman Grill is a classic choice for fast, low-mess indoor grilling.

5. Pellet Grill

Pellet grills use wood pellets to produce heat and smoke. They offer set-it-and-forget-it convenience with rich BBQ flavor. The Traeger Pro 575 allows you to smoke, grill, or roast with app control for easy operation.

6. Kamado Grill

Kamado grills utilize thick ceramic to trap and retain heat, much like an oven. You can grill, smoke, or even bake bread and pizza with ease. The Big Green Egg works year-round and is one of the most popular options.

7. Ceramic Grill

Ceramic grills are similar to kamado grills but span a wider range of brands. They lock in moisture and maintain steady heat, making them ideal for roasting meats at a low and slow temperature. It’s a favorite among BBQ fans who love tender results.

8. Infrared Grill

Infrared grills cook food using radiant heat, not direct flames. This reduces flare-ups and ensures even cooking. They’re perfect for searing juicy steaks and are common in high-end models.

9. Portable Grill

Portable grills are lightweight and easy to carry. They’re a must-have for tailgating, camping, or picnics. The Cuisinart Petite Gourmet is compact yet powerful enough to cook full meals on the go.

10. Smoker Grill

Smoker grills use indirect heat and wood smoke to slow-cook meats. They work great for brisket, ribs, and pulled pork. Both offset and pellet models provide a rich, smoky BBQ flavor.

11. Natural Gas Grill

These grills connect directly to your home’s gas line, so you’ll never run out of fuel. They’re ideal for permanent outdoor kitchens. The Broil King Regal is a top-rated natural gas option with high performance.

12. Built-in Grill

Outdoor kitchens often use built-in grills for a clean, custom look. These grills offer power and style for serious backyard cooking. Brands like Napoleon build units that fit smoothly into stone countertops and patio designs.

13. Flat Top Grill

Flat-top grills feature a large, smooth surface for cooking a wide range of dishes, from burgers to pancakes. They offer tons of space and heat control. You’ll feel like a short-order chef cooking on a Blackstone Griddle.

14. Hybrid Grill

Hybrid grills offer a combination of gas, charcoal, or pellet fuel options in a single unit. They’re great for switching between quick meals and smoky weekend BBQs. These are ideal for anyone who wants variety in one setup.

15. Indoor Grill

Indoor grills are compact, smokeless, and safe for kitchen counters. They’re great when you want grilled food without having to step outside. The Ninja Foodi Indoor Grill delivers seared results with minimal smoke.

16. Tabletop Grill

These grills sit on any table or counter and are perfect for small patios or RVs. Despite their size, they pack a punch in performance. The Weber Q1200 is a reliable model for small-space grilling.

17. Disposable Grill

Disposable grills are lightweight and made for single use. They’re perfect for travel, hiking, or emergency cooking. Just light the charcoal and cook — no cleanup needed. Use them with caution and follow grill safety tips.

18. Barbecue Grill

This term often refers to any outdoor grill used for slow-cooking meat. Whether gas or charcoal, BBQ grills are all about low-and-slow flavors. It’s the heart of classic American cookouts.

19. Hibachi Grill

Hibachi grills are small, traditional Japanese grills made of cast iron. They’re great for skewers, seafood, or sliced meats. Their compact size makes them a favorite for use on balconies or tabletops.

20. Shop Built-in Grill

Restaurants, food trucks, and commercial kitchens use these heavy-duty grills every day. Builders often custom-make them to handle nonstop cooking. They deliver high output and meet heavy grilling demands with ease.

21. Large Grill

Large grills have multiple burners or expanded cooking zones. They’re perfect for entertaining big crowds. The Char-Broil Performance XL lets you cook a feast without crowding the grill.

Conclusion

So, guys, I am going to conclude that every grill brings something different to the table. From the smoky charm of charcoal to the ease of electricity, the best choice depends on your lifestyle. Consider your space, cooking habits, and the level of hands-on involvement you prefer. Personally, I love the versatility of a pellet grill — it’s perfect for slow-cooked flavor with the convenience of a push-button.

If you’re still unsure, revisit this guide to the different types of grills and find one that matches your needs. Want more helpful grilling tips? Subscribe for more advice!

FAQs About Types of Grills

I’ve covered the most common questions about grills. If you have any others, feel free to ask in the comments section.

What’s the best type of grill for beginners?

A gas grill is usually the easiest for beginners. It heats up quickly and is simple to use with just a turn of a knob. You don’t have to worry about managing charcoal or wood.

What’s the difference between gas and charcoal grills?

Gas grills use propane or natural gas and light instantly. Charcoal grills need time to heat up, but give your food a rich, smoky flavor. Charcoal also needs more cleanup after cooking.

Are electric grills suitable for apartments?

Yes, electric grills are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. They plug into a standard outlet and don’t produce smoke like other grills. Just make sure your lease allows indoor grilling.

What is a pellet grill, and how does it work?

A pellet grill burns wood pellets to cook and smoke your food. It runs on electricity and has automatic temperature control. It’s excellent for low-and-slow BBQs with a deep, smoky flavor.

Can I use a smoker grill as a regular grill?

Some smoker grills also allow you to grill, but they primarily focus on slow cooking. They use wood chips to add deep, smoky flavor over time. If you want both options, consider a combo smoker grill that allows for both grilling and smoking.

Which grill gives the best flavor?

Charcoal and pellet grills are top choices for achieving exceptional flavor. They infuse your food with smoke, giving it that classic BBQ taste. Gas and electric grills are easier to use, but they don’t add as much flavor to the food as charcoal grills do.

Are infrared grills safe to use?

Yes, infrared grills are safe when used correctly. They cook with radiant heat instead of open flames, making them ideal for even cooking. Always follow basic grill safety tips to prevent accidents.

What’s the best grill for small spaces?

Tabletops, portable, or electric grills are great options for small spaces. They’re compact, lightweight, and easy to store. Just check your local rules if you’re grilling on a balcony.

Do I need a built-in grill for an outdoor kitchen?

Yes, a built-in grill gives you a permanent outdoor setup. You install it into a counter or island, often with extra features like side burners or storage. Serious grillers with the space and budget will enjoy its power and custom fit.

What’s a hybrid grill, and why choose one?

A hybrid grill allows you to cook with both gas and charcoal or sometimes pellets. It offers flexibility — quick gas grilling on weekdays and smoky charcoal flavor on weekends. It’s great if you want the best of both worlds.