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Best 3-Burner Gas Grills for 2024: Reviews & Buying Guide

By Chris Johns •  Updated: 10/10/24 •  11 min read
Home » Gas Grill Reviews

A 3-burner gas grill offers the perfect balance of cooking space, performance, and affordability for most backyard grillers. These versatile units provide enough grilling area to cook for a family or small gathering while remaining compact enough for patios and decks. With multiple burners, you can create different heat zones for direct and indirect cooking.

We’ve tested and reviewed over 30 different models to bring you this comprehensive guide to the best 3-burner gas grills of 2024. Whether you’re looking for premium features, budget-friendly options, or the perfect balance of value and performance, we’ve got you covered.

Our Top Picks for the Best 3-Burner Gas Grills in 2024

Benefits of a 3-Burner Gas Grill

Before diving into our reviews, let’s explore why a 3-burner gas grill might be the perfect choice for your outdoor cooking needs:

  1. Versatile Cooking Space: With three burners, you have enough space to cook for medium-sized gatherings while still being compact enough for most patios or decks.
  2. Multiple Heat Zones: Three burners allow you to create different heat zones, perfect for searing, cooking, and warming foods simultaneously.
  3. Energy Efficient: Compared to larger grills, 3-burner models are more energy-efficient, allowing you to use only the burners you need.
  4. Even Heat Distribution: Most 3-burner grills offer excellent heat distribution across the cooking surface, ensuring consistent results.
  5. Ideal for Indirect Cooking: You can easily set up 2-zone cooking by turning off the middle burner, perfect for roasts and larger cuts of meat.
  6. Affordable: 3-burner grills often hit the sweet spot between features and price, offering great value for most homeowners.
  7. Easy to Clean: With a moderate size, these grills are easier to clean and maintain compared to larger models.

Now that we’ve covered the benefits, let’s dive into our top picks for the best 3-burner gas grills of 2024.

Reviews of the Best 3-Burner Gas Grills

1. Weber Spirit II E-310 3-Burner Liquid Propane Grill

The Weber Spirit II E-310 is our top pick for the best overall 3-burner gas grill. It combines excellent build quality, superior cooking performance, and innovative features that make grilling a joy. Weber’s reputation for durability and customer service is well-deserved, making this grill a solid investment for years of outdoor cooking.

Weber Spirit II E-310 3-Burner Liquid Propane Grill, Black

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Highlights

Specifications

The Spirit II E-310 features Weber’s GS4 Grilling System, which includes improved infinity ignition, high-performance burners, and porcelain-enameled Flavorizer bars. These components work together to ensure consistent heating and add smoky flavor to your food. The reversible cooking grates allow you to create thin sear marks for delicate foods or wider sear marks for heartier cuts of meat.

Customer Reviews for Weber Spirit II E-310

  1. “Easy to assemble and heats up quickly. The even heat distribution is impressive, and I love the open cart design for storing my grilling tools.”
  2. “The GS4 system is a game-changer. No more frustrating ignition issues, and the Flavorizer bars really do enhance the flavor of my food.”
  3. “This grill is built to last. I’ve had mine for two years now, and it still looks and performs like new. Well worth the investment.”

With 529 square inches of total cooking space, the Weber Spirit II E-310 provides ample room for grilling multiple dishes simultaneously. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this grill delivers consistent results and user-friendly features that make outdoor cooking a pleasure.

2. MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill

For budget-conscious grillers who don’t want to sacrifice quality, the MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill is an excellent choice. This affordable 3-burner gas grill offers solid performance and ample cooking space at a price that won’t break the bank.

MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill, Stainless Steel 30,000 BTU Patio Garden Barbecue Grill with Two Foldable Shelves

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Highlights

Specifications

The MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill features three stainless steel burners that provide even heat across the entire cooking surface. The porcelain-enameled wire cooking grates are rust-resistant and easy to clean, while the stainless steel lid offers durability and heat retention.

Customer Reviews for MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill

  1. “Great value for the price. It heats up quickly and cooks evenly. Perfect for my small family.”
  2. “Assembly was straightforward, and I appreciate the two foldable side tables for prep work. It’s a solid grill for the money.”
  3. “I’ve been using this grill for several months now, and I’m impressed with its performance. It’s a great option for those on a budget.”

With its compact design and lightweight construction, the MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill is ideal for those with limited space or who need a portable option for tailgating or camping. It offers good performance at an affordable price point, making it our top budget pick.

3. Kenmore 3-Burner Outdoor BBQ Grill

For those seeking a premium grilling experience, the Kenmore 3-Burner Outdoor BBQ Grill delivers top-of-the-line features and exceptional performance. This high-end 3-burner gas grill is built to last and designed to elevate your outdoor cooking game.

Kenmore 3-Burner Outdoor BBQ Grill | Liquid Propane Barbecue Gas Grill with Folding Sides, PG-A4030400LD-AZ, Pedestal Grill with Wheels, 30000 BTU, Azure

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Highlights

Specifications

The Kenmore 3-Burner Outdoor BBQ Grill features three powerful burners that provide even heat distribution across the cooking surface. The cast iron cooking grates offer excellent heat retention and create perfect sear marks on your food. The stylish pedestal design not only looks great but also provides a stable cooking platform.

Customer Reviews for Kenmore 3-Burner Outdoor BBQ Grill

  1. “This grill is a showstopper! It looks great on my patio and cooks even better. The cast iron grates are a game-changer.”
  2. “I love the pedestal design and how easy it is to move around with the swivel casters. The folding side tables are a nice touch for extra prep space.”
  3. “The heat distribution on this grill is excellent. I’ve been able to cook everything from delicate fish to thick steaks with great results.”

With its combination of style and performance, the Kenmore 3-Burner Outdoor BBQ Grill is perfect for those who want a premium grilling experience. Its sleek design and powerful performance make it a standout choice for serious grill enthusiasts.

4. Char-Griller E3001 Grillin’ Pro 3-Burner Gas Grill

The Char-Griller E3001 Grillin’ Pro offers excellent value for money, combining durability, ample cooking space, and powerful performance. This grill is perfect for those who want a robust cooking machine without breaking the bank.

Char-Griller® Grillin' Pro 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill in Black with 40,800 BTU, Cast Iron Grates and Warming Racks, 630 Cooking Square Inches, Model E3001

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Highlights

Specifications

The Char-Griller E3001 Grillin’ Pro features three powerful main burners and a side burner, offering versatility for all your grilling needs. The porcelain-coated cast-iron grates provide excellent heat retention and distribution, ensuring even cooking across the entire surface.

Customer Reviews for Char-Griller E3001 Grillin’ Pro

  1. “This grill packs a punch! The high BTU output means it heats up fast and can handle anything I throw at it.”
  2. “I love the spacious cooking area and the side burner is perfect for sauces or side dishes. Great value for the price.”
  3. “The build quality is impressive for a grill in this price range. It feels sturdy and well-made.”

The Char-Griller E3001 Grillin’ Pro offers an excellent balance of features, performance, and affordability. Its durable construction and powerful burners make it a great choice for those who want a reliable grill that can handle frequent use and larger cookouts.

5. Royal Gourmet PD1300 Portable 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill Griddle

For those who prioritize portability and versatility, the Royal Gourmet PD1300 is an excellent choice. This portable gas grill griddle combines the convenience of a flat top with the power of three burners, making it perfect for camping, tailgating, or small patios.

Royal Gourmet PD1300 Portable Propane Gas Grill Griddle for Outdoor Patio Grilling, Includes PVC Cover, 3-Burner Tabletop Griddle for On-the-Go Grilling and Outdoor Adventures, Silver

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Highlights

Specifications

The Royal Gourmet PD1300 features a spacious griddle top that’s perfect for cooking a variety of foods, from pancakes and eggs to burgers and stir-fries. The three independently controlled burners allow for precise temperature control across different areas of the cooking surface.

Customer Reviews for Royal Gourmet PD1300

  1. “This griddle is a game-changer for camping trips. It’s easy to transport and heats up quickly.”
  2. “I love the versatility of the flat top. I can cook just about anything on this griddle.”
  3. “The build quality is impressive for a portable unit. It feels sturdy and well-made.”

The Royal Gourmet PD1300 is an excellent choice for those who need a portable grilling solution that doesn’t compromise on cooking power or versatility. Its compact design and efficient performance make it a standout option in the portable grill category.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best 3-Burner Gas Grill

When selecting the best 3-burner gas grill for your needs, consider the following factors:

  1. Cooking Space: Ensure the grill has enough cooking area for your typical grilling needs. Most 3-burner grills offer between 400-600 square inches of total cooking space.
  2. BTU Output: Look for a grill with adequate BTU output for its size. A good rule of thumb is about 80-100 BTUs per square inch of cooking space.
  3. Construction Quality: Choose grills made with durable materials like stainless steel or heavy-gauge steel with a weather-resistant finish.
  4. Grate Material: Porcelain-coated cast iron or stainless steel grates offer the best durability and heat retention.
  5. Ignition System: Electronic or push-button ignition systems provide reliable and easy startups.
  6. Additional Features: Consider extras like side burners, warming racks, built-in thermometers, and storage space.
  7. Portability: If you plan to move your grill often, look for models with sturdy wheels or casters.
  8. Price and Warranty: Balance your budget with the features you need, and look for grills with good warranty coverage.

FAQ

  1. What is the ideal cooking space for a 3-burner gas grill? Most 3-burner gas grills offer between 400-600 square inches of total cooking space, which is suitable for cooking for 4-6 people.
  2. How many BTUs should a good 3-burner gas grill have? A good 3-burner gas grill typically has between 30,000-40,000 BTUs for the main burners. However, BTU alone doesn’t determine performance; heat distribution and retention are also important factors.
  3. What’s the benefit of cast iron grates in a gas grill? Cast iron grates offer excellent heat retention and distribution, creating perfect sear marks on food. They’re also very durable when properly maintained.
  4. Are 3-burner gas grills good for indirect cooking? Yes, 3-burner gas grills are great for indirect cooking. You can turn off the middle burner and use the outer burners to create two heat zones for different cooking methods.
  5. How long should a 3-burner gas grill last? With proper maintenance, a quality 3-burner gas grill should last 5-15 years, depending on the brand, build quality, and how often it’s used.

Conclusion

A 3-burner gas grill offers the perfect balance of cooking space, performance, and affordability for most home grillers. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option like the MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill, a premium model like the Kenmore 3-Burner Outdoor BBQ Grill, or a top all-around performer like the Weber Spirit II E-310, there’s a grill on this list to suit your needs and budget.

Remember to consider factors like cooking space, BTU output, construction quality, and additional features when making your decision. With the right 3-burner gas grill, you’ll be well-equipped to handle everything from weeknight dinners to weekend barbecues with ease and style.

Happy grilling!

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Chris Johns

Chris is the founder of BBQ Report® and has been an avid barbecue fan for over 20 years. His mission is to make grilling and smoking the best food possible easy for everyone. And each year, he continues to help more people with grilling, smoking, and barbecue recipe recommendations.