With summertime here, it’s the season for outdoor barbecues and we review the 11 best built in grills under 3000 for your consideration, but how do you know which is the best choice?
The best grill is the one that most closely meets your needs with useful features, durable and reliable construction, and one that is easy to operate. We chose the 11 best built in grills under $3,000 that meet these criteria.
For each of the grills, you will find a complete description of the outstanding features and how they are useful. We discuss what we like about each and any drawbacks that we discovered.
This gives you the information you need to find the ideal built in grill for your unique situation and it eliminates the frustration of trial and error of choosing a grill that disappoints you.
We include a buyer’s guide along with the reviews, so you’ll know what to look for as you browse through our collection of the best built in grills under 3000.
| Category | Built In Grill |
|---|---|
| Best 30 Inch Built In Grill | Bull Outdoor Products Liquid Propane Outlaw Drop-In Grill Head |
| Best 32 Inch Built In Grill | Lion Premium Grills 32″ Natural Gas Grill |
| Best 36 Inch Built In Grill | Bull Outdoor Products LP Steer Premium Drop-In Grill |
| Best 40 Inch Built In Grill | Bull Outdoor Products BBQ Angus |
| Best Built In Charcoal Grill | FireMagic Charcoal Legacy Built In Grill |
| Best Built In Electric Grill | Kenyon Rio All Seasons Built In Electric Grill |
| Best Built In Flat Top Grill | OT QUMOTOP Gas Griddle, Outdoor Flat Top Grill |
| Best Built In Gas Grill | Napoleon Built In Prestige 500 BBQ Grill Propane Gas |
| Best Built In Infrared Grill | Saber 3-Burner Infrared Grill |
| Best Built In Pellet Grill | Louisiana Grills Built In Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker |
| Best Built In Stainless Steel Grill | Weber Summit S-660 Built In Natural Gas Grill |
Table of Contents
Built In Grill vs Freestanding
There has been a longstanding debate whether a built in grill is better than a freestanding. The truth is that neither is necessarily better as there are pros and cons for each. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of both to help you decide which suits your lifestyle better.
Difference Between Built In Grill And Regular Grill
Once a built in grill is installed it becomes a permanent fixture on your property. The main difference between a built in grill and a regular grill is that the stand-alone types are portable.
This means that you can move them from one location to another. They are more flexible than the built in type. The disadvantage to a stand-alone grill is that most of them are less powerful than a built in, and they are smaller.
Most built in grills are larger and more powerful which means you can cook more on them in a shorter period of time.
Can I Use A Regular Grill For A Built In
Technically, you can use a regular grill for a built in under certain circumstances. If the manufacturer of the grill recommends this kind of conversion it is possible, but in most cases, the answer to this question is no.
Most consumer models are not made to be converted into a built in. This is because the integrity and strength of the grill is not suitable. Built in grills are designed with extra strength and resiliency.
Why Are Built In Grills So Expensive
Built in grills are more expensive because they are made of more expensive materials. This type of grill has components that are made to be superior to the freestanding models because they must be made to withstand the elements as well as frequent use.
The majority of gas grills are made with a stainless-steel grid that is expensive to manufacture. Others are made with durable porcelain or ceramic coating on the grids which drives the price up even higher.
Even those that are crafted of cast iron are more expensive. In general, the burners are made of the highest quality of steel possible so they will last longer.
Are Built In Grills Worth It
This depends on if you value the convenience of a low-maintenance grill that is permanent and will last for years over a grill that is more portable.
For those who enjoy cooking outdoors and don’t want to fuss with maintenance much or buy a replacement grill every few years, it is worth the higher price, but some who rarely grill outside might not be able to justify the expense.
How Long Do Built In Grills Last
Built in grills can last an average of 5 to 15 years before they need to be replaced. The lifespan depends on the quality of the materials used, the frequency of use, and how well the grill is taken care of. This is a lot longer than the average 3 years for a regular stand-alone grill.
Best Brands For Built In Grills
If you’re planning to construct a built in grill then you’ll want to consider the quality, performance, and features. The brand that you choose has a lot to do with these factors.
Higher-end brands use the best materials, but they are also more expensive. Lower-end brands may offer a discount on the price, but the lower-quality materials used will not hold up for as long.
The top-rated brands considered to be luxury or high-end brands include Napoleon, Lion, BeefEater, Bull, and American Outdoor Gear/AOG.
Each of these brands uses premium materials in the creation of the components of the products that they offer. This is reflected in the higher price, but also in the excellent warranties as each stand behind their products.
You’ll find a range of models within each of these brands with various useful features and innovations.
Does Traeger Make A Built In Grill
No. All Traeger grills are portable, or stand-alone grills. Although some users have converted their Traeger’s into built in grills, they were not intended for this purpose.
Does Weber Make A Built In Grill
Weber is a grill manufacturer that has established a reputation for building moderate-quality portable barbecue grills. The brand also makes built in grills.
The Weber Summit S-660 is a natural gas-powered grill that comes with a sear burner and a rotisserie for just under $3,000. The second built in model is the S-460 which is also a natural gas grill with a sear burner and rotisserie.
Built In Grill Buyers Guide
There are so many excellent models available that it can be hard to know which one to choose. We’ve prepared a buyer’s guide to help you know exactly what to look for in a built in grill.
We point out various features, their functions, and benefits, but we also cover the basics of how to determine which model will serve you the best. Here are the main points to consider before you make your choice.
Quality
The quality is determined by the strength of the components of the grill. The best are made of high-grade materials that are rated for their durability and dependability. They will perform at higher levels and they will last longer if the best possible materials are used.
Size
The size of the grill is important to think about because it can impact your pleasure or displeasure. Consider how much space you have to work with, how much food you plan to cook at one time, and how large you want your built in grill to be.
This is one of the key points to consider before you even start planning the construction of your built in grill.
Performance
Each built in grill cooks differently. The best have a high heat capability along with an even distribution of the heat and a wide temperature range to choose from. You want a grill that is also rated for minimal flare-ups.
Features
The features are the extras that come with the grill that goes beyond the basics. These are the things that can make grilling easier and more versatile.
For example, some come equipped with heat zone separators for cooking different foods at different temperatures, others come with infrared burners, rotisseries, or other useful features.
Budget
It’s always wise to compare grills that have useful features that are the closest to your budget. The most expensive grill won’t necessarily suit your purposes the best.
Get the best deal that you can on a grill that provides all the features that you desire, but don’t spend extra money on something that you will never use.
Accessories
Some grills come with extra accessories to make grilling easier and more fun. If you can only afford a basic grill, but you want to add more accessories such as a rotisserie, or another item, try to find one that will accept the addition of accessories.
Also, check to make sure that the brand you choose makes the accessories that you would like to add in the future.
Base
If you are replacing a built in grill then it’s important to check the size of the base of the grill to make sure that it will fit into the available space that you have. Also, make sure that the base is made of high-quality and durable materials such as premium-grade steel.
Installation
Some built in grills are easier to install than others. It’s always recommended that you go over the specifications for any grill that you’re considering learning about the requirements for installation.
Natural Gas vs Propane
It’s estimated that about two-thirds of the built in grills made are propane-powered versus natural gas, but manufacturers are beginning to make more models for the latter.
In the long-term, natural gas is cheaper to buy, but if you don’t have a line running to your home already, you will need to install the plumbing and pay for the service. It may be more expensive to arrange the initial setup.
Propane is environmentally friendly, and it burns hotter than natural gas. The difference is 2,500 BTUs vs 1,000 BTUs. Propane is the more expensive and more inconvenient alternative because you need to refill tanks. Natural gas is piped in.
Natural gas also has a higher risk of creating a fire hazard because it is more concentrated and hangs lower to the ground. If sparks are present, there is a higher danger of flare-ups or fires.
One is not necessarily better than the other, it’s more a matter of what you’re set up for and what works best for you.
Replacement Parts
It’s always a good idea to check the availability and the price of replacement parts for the brand of the grill that you’re considering. Some are more expensive than others, and some brands have replacement parts that are hard to find.
Top 11 Best Built In Grills Under 3000
Now that you know what to look for in a built in grill, here are reviews of the top 11 best built in grills under $3,000. These are the most highly rated for their quality and performance.
We also categorized them to help make browsing through them easier if you have a particular kind in mind.
1. Best 30 Inch Built In Grill – Bull Outdoor Products Liquid Propane Outlaw Drop-In Grill Head
The Bull Outlaw Drop-In Grill Head is popular for its even heat distribution for cooking foods to the ideal level of doneness.
It’s recommended for grillers who are particular about achieving uniformity in cooking as well as those who are looking for reliability. Bull Outdoor is known for its innovative technology.
The company works with experts from California Polytechnic for flame tamers to make the grilling surface even without hot or cold spots.
The grill produces 60,000 BUTTs of cooking power. It heats quickly and gets hot enough to sear. It comes with 4 porcelain coated bar burners with 304 stainless steel construction.
The hood is dual lined and made in one piece and the grates are made of solid stainless steel.
What I like:
- The grill is heavy duty and well made
- There is a large cooking space for cooking a lot of food items at one time
- It starts easily with the built in igniter
- The warming rack is handy
What I don’t like:
- Does not come with the Bull 30″ finishing frame
We found this to be an excellent grill in the 30″ category. It’s a well-made grill featuring 304 stainless steel for durability. We also like the single-piece construction of the hood. It’s a basic grill but the porcelain coating on the bar burners is a luxury feature that we liked.
2. Best 32 Inch Built In Grill – Lion Premium Grills 32″ Natural Gas Grill
Lion Premium Grills is made by a premium brand that is known for its high quality in materials and workmanship. It features a cooking surface of 830 square inches, making it great for anyone who cooks for big crowds. It is natural gas-powered and operates at 75,000 BTUs.
The grates are made of premium solid stainless steel with an included stainless-steel smoker head featuring polished edges.
What I like:
- The grill is solid
- It is easy to light and to operate
- There is plenty of room for cooking a lot of food at one time
What I don’t like:
- Flare-ups can be a problem if you don’t clean the grill grates after each use
This grill is ideal for anyone who prefers natural gas and wants to have a large cooking area. It’s made of premium materials that are built to hold up over time. Flare-ups are controlled by cleaning the grates before you barbecue, or after you’re through grilling.
3. Best 36 Inch Built In Grill – Bull Outdoor Products LP Steer Premium Drop-In Grill
The Bull Steer Premium Drop-In Grill is a liquid propane grill that offers a spacious cooking area. This model is also available in natural gas.
It cooks with 45,000 BTUs. It’s made of 304 16-gauge stainless steel and it comes with a smoker box. It’s ideal for anyone who likes to smoke their foods prior to cooking.
What I like:
- Great for smoking and cooking
- The Piezo igniters are placed on each valve for easy lighting
- It’s easy to assemble
- The grill is very sturdy
What I don’t like:
- Some of these grills are off in measurement by 1/2 inch but modification isn’t too difficult
This grill is one of the best in its size class because of its sturdy construction. It is a dual-purpose grill for both cooking and smoking foods. We like the fact that it’s well built from premium materials and it comes with a handy smoker box accessory.
4. Best 40 Inch Built In Grill – Bull Outdoor Products BBQ Angus
The Angus is one of Bull’s more popular models with a 600 square inch cooking space. This allows you to cook larger amounts of food at one time to shorten the time spent at the grill.
It’s ideal for anyone who loves outdoor cooking for bigger gatherings of family and friends. It’s available in propane or natural gas-powered models.
The outstanding features are the stainless-steel cooking grates that come with a full-size drip tray and twin internal lights. It also comes with a rotisserie for cooking larger pieces of meat and there is also a 210 square inch warming rack, and an infrared rear burner.
What I like:
- The grill heats up fast even in cold weather
- The lights are a nice feature
- The drip tray makes maintenance easier
What I don’t like:
- The heat distribution is uneven in spots
This grill comes with an outstanding 20-year warranty. As with most grills, there are a few hot spots, but overall, it’s made of excellent quality materials and it’s made to last for decades. Most users find the performance of this grill to be excellent.
5. Best Built In Charcoal Grill – FireMagic Charcoal Legacy Built In Grill
FireMagic Charcoal Legacy Grill is a 30-inch grill that comes with a smoker hood. It’s ideal for anyone that prefers a small to the moderate-sized cooking surface of 24 x 18 inches.
It is powered with charcoal so there is no need to fuss with piping for natural gas. The grill is made of stainless-steel material which makes it durable. It also comes with a smoker hood.
What I like:
- Sturdy grill
- The smoker hood is a nice feature that lets you grill and smoke in one unit
- It’s easy to use and operate
What I don’t like:
- The ash tray has gaps in the bottom area
This is a reasonably priced built in charcoal powered grill. We love the smoker hood that comes in the package. You can also purchase an optional infrared burner that is compatible with this grill if you like.
6. Best Built In Electric Grill – Kenyon Rio All Seasons Built In Electric Grill
The Kenyon Rio Electric Grill is a 240-volt electric grill that heats up quickly and provides an even distribution of heat. It’s ideal for anybody who doesn’t want to fuss with gas, pellets or charcoal. Just plug it into an electrical outlet and you’re ready to cook.
This grill comes with an insulated lid that is a safety feature that helps to prevent accidental burns. It’s easy to maintain with a lid and grill grate that are removable, and they are also dishwasher safe. The grill reaches a temperature of 600 degrees F in just minutes.
What I like:
- Heats up quickly and it’s easy to use
- The cleanup is easy
- This is a hassle-free grill that you can use outside or inside
- It’s small and ideal for use in a condo balcony
What I don’t like:
- The edges tend to distort over time
This is one of the best electric built in grills on the market today. We love the hassle-free design that makes it easy to use and easy to clean up. It comes with great touch controls and it can be installed on an outdoor island or an indoor island. It’s a versatile grill.
7. Best Built In Flat Top Grill – OT QUMOTOP Gas Griddle, Outdoor Flat Top Grill
The OT QUOMOTOP is a 23-inch gas griddle that features 355 square inches of cooking area. It also comes equipped with 3 burners.
This is the best choice in a flattop built in grill that is versatile enough to be used in a permanent structure or taken out for camping.
It’s small and compact in size for those who have smaller yards at just 23-inches. It might be compact, but the cooking area is 355 square inches.
It’s easy to clean and it comes with a built in grease box. The flat-top can be flipped over and used for a cover.
What I like:
- It’s easy to start and to use
- This grill cleans up quickly and easily
- It cooks up to 12 hamburgers at one time.
What I don’t like:
- It’s a small grill best for small yards
This is one of the most compact grills on the market. We recommend this versatile grill that can be used as a built in or as a stand-alone for anyone who has a small area of space to build a permanent backyard grilling kitchen.
The unique flat top makes it easy to clean and easy to keep clean. You can also make hotcakes, eggs, and smaller foods on the surface.
8. Best Built In Gas Grill – Napoleon Built In Prestige 500 BBQ Grill Propane Gas
Napoleon is one of the most popular brands, known for its high quality. The Prestige 500 Grill features premium stainless-steel grids that are 7.5 mm thick.
It’s maintenance-free and the best choice for the outdoor grill enthusiast who doesn’t want the hassle of heavy-duty cleaning jobs.
It comes with infrared side and rear burners with 2 other burners for a total of 4 and it’s powered with propane gas. It is built with a failsafe ignition system for easy starting.
It’s equipped with stainless steel sear plates that catch and vaporize drippings from the food to make it easy to keep clean. The knobs are also backlit with blue LED lights that change to red when the gas is on.
What I like:
- It’s great for grilling in the dark because of the LED lights
- The cooking on the surface is even in most places for uniform cooking
- It’s great for making grilled steaks
- It’s easy to start and to operate
What I don’t like:
- It’s difficult to find replacement parts
We love the 2 infrared burners that come on this grill. It’s loaded with useful features that make this a premium built in luxury grill. The LED lights serve as indicators that change color to let you know if the gas in on or off, which makes it the best choice for nighttime grilling.
9. Best Built In Infrared Grill – Saber 3-Burner Infrared Grill
The Saber 3-Burner Grill is a 32-inch propane-powered infrared grill. It is designed with precision control with a wide range of temperature controls.
It can be used for low and slow roasting or for searing meats at a higher temperature. It’s ideal for a versatile griller who insists on a grill that will allow for even and precision cooking
The most notable features are the temperature control features that make this a versatile grill. It also comes with a warming rack. It’s also made of premium 304 stainless steel for long life.
What I like:
- It heats food evenly over all parts of the grill
- It’s easy to light and to operate
- The low to high heat control lets you do a lot more with this grill over most other outdoor grills
What I don’t like:
- There are some flare-ups
We absolutely love the temperature control features on this grill. It’s the best choice if you’re into cooking versatility and precision meal preparation. There are few models on the market that offer this kind of temperature range.
10. Best Built In Pellet Grill – Louisiana Grills Built In Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker, Estate Series
The Louisiana Wood Pellet Grill comes with a dual capacity for smoking and grilling foods. It’s powered with wood pellets. This is for the outdoor griller who prefers a grill that will not only sear and grill foods, but it also roasts and smokes with ease.
It is loaded with great features including a temperature range from 180 to 600 degrees F. You can cook a variety of foods on this grill.
It has a cooking surface of 860 square inches for making large meals at one time. There are also probes included for measuring the internal temperature of meats being cooked.
What I like:
- This is a versatile grill that lets you cook lots of different foods to perfection
- The digital controls are easy to use
- It’s easy to start
- The drawers and cabinets give you great storage space for grill supplies
What I don’t like:
- Cleaning is a process
11. Best Built In Stainless Steel Grill – Weber Summit S-660 Built In Natural Gas Grill
The Weber Summit S-660 Grill is constructed of premium stainless steel, so it is well-built and sturdy. It’s an excellent choice for outdoor grill enthusiasts who prefer a permanent structure with a grill head that will hold up for several years.
It is designed with 6 stainless steel burners that are solid. You can cook larger meals on this grill. It’s also packed with features including an infrared rear-mounted rotisserie burner, a sear burner, a smoker burner, and a stainless-steel smoker box.
What I like:
- It’s easy to start and to operate
- The grill cooks with an even heat
- It’s a dual-purpose smoker and grill
What I don’t like:
- The handles feel flimsy
Helpful Tips To Find The Best Built In Grills
- Determine the best size for your situation
- Look for premium materials in the construction
- Choose the features that you will find the most useful
Final Thoughts
We’ve provided you with a review of the 11 best built in grills under 3000. We made sure to include a variety of different brands, models and sizes to give you useful options to make it easier to find the best fit for your situation.
The best grill is the one that will perform well, it will last longer, and it will be large enough to meet your cooking needs and lifestyle.
We hope that you found our guide, tips, and reviews helpful in finding the perfect built in grill.