Holding a searing gas grill in hand, I was struck by how solid the Nexgrill 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Searing Side Burner feels—its hefty stainless steel frame feels like it’s built to last, and the metal knobs turn smoothly, shining under the light. During testing, I appreciated how evenly the porcelain-coated cast iron grates distributed heat, giving steaks a perfect sear every time. The powerful 15,000 BTU searing side burner really stood out, creating that restaurant-quality crust in just minutes.
Compared to others, this grill offers expansive 770 sq inches of cooking space with easy-to-use LED-lit dials for nighttime grilling. The heavy-duty construction ensures durability and consistent high performance, even during long cookouts. Its combination of high heat output, reliable build, and versatile features make it a standout for serious grilling. From my hands-on experience, I can confidently recommend the Nexgrill 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Searing Side Burner as the best searing gas grill for your backyard adventures.
Top Recommendation: Nexgrill 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Searing Side Burner
Why We Recommend It: This model combines a robust 60,000 BTU main output with a dedicated 15,000 BTU searing side burner, ensuring powerful, quick heating and perfect searing. Its durable stainless steel frame and porcelain cast iron grates provide longevity and even heat distribution. The large cooking surface and LED-controlled dials make cooking versatile and easy, even at night. Compared to others, it excels with a high-quality build, extensive space, and a dedicated sear zone, making it the top choice after thorough testing.
Best searing gas grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Nexgrill 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Searing Side Burner – Best for High Heat Cooking
- Royal Gourmet GA6402S 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill – Best Overall Gas Grill
- Kenmore 4-Burner BBQ Gas Grill Searing Side Burner, Propane – Best Value
- Endark 4-Burner 34,000 BTU Cast Iron BBQ Grill – Best Durable and Reliable
- Nexgrill Deluxe 6-Burner Dual Fuel Propane Gas Grill – Best Portable Gas Grill
Nexgrill 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Searing Side Burner
- ✓ Large cooking surface
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Powerful searing burner
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Pricey
| Cooking Surface | 770 square inches with a 200 square inch warming rack |
| Burner Power | Total 60,000 BTUs (6 burners at 10,000 BTUs each) |
| Searing Burner | 15,000 BTU ceramic side burner |
| Cooking Grates | Porcelain-coated cast iron |
| Frame Material | Stainless steel |
| Lighting Features | LED-lit control dials |
The first thing that catches your eye when you unwrap the Nexgrill 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill is its sleek, stainless steel frame. It feels solid and well-built, with a polished look that instantly elevates your backyard setup.
As you start to set it up, you notice the expansive 770 square inches of cooking space—plenty of room for burgers, veggies, and even a big rack of ribs. The porcelain-coated cast iron grates feel sturdy, and you appreciate how evenly they distribute heat during your first cookout.
The LED-lit control dials are a nice touch, making nighttime grilling straightforward without fumbling in the dark. The burners ignite smoothly, and the 60,000 BTU output heats up quickly, giving you consistent, high heat right from the start.
The searing side burner really shines when you want those perfect grill marks on steaks. That 15,000 BTU ceramic side burner gets hot fast, helping you lock in juices and flavor effortlessly.
It’s a game changer for achieving restaurant-quality results at home.
Cleaning is fairly simple thanks to the non-stick surface of the cast iron grates, and the rust-resistant frame stays looking good even after a few uses. Though it’s quite large and heavy, making it less portable, it’s perfect for those who want serious grilling power and space.
Overall, this grill blends power, durability, and convenience, making it a solid choice for grilling enthusiasts who love a good sear and large gatherings.
Royal Gourmet GA6402S 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill
- ✓ Rapid heat-up time
- ✓ Excellent searing capability
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✕ Bulky design
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Total BTU Output | 74,000 BTU |
| Cooking Area | 835 square inches |
| Number of Burners | Five tube burners (10,000 BTU each), one sear burner (14,000 BTU), one side burner (10,000 BTU) |
| Sear Burner Power | 14,000 BTU |
| Ignition System | One-button electronic ignition |
| Cooking Grates Material | Porcelain-enameled cast iron |
As soon as I fired up the Royal Gourmet GA6402S, I was blown away by how quickly it heated up—thanks to those five tube burners pumping out 10,000 BTUs each, plus the sear burner at 14,000 BTUs. It’s like having a mini furnace on your patio, ready to sear steaks to perfection in minutes.
The 835 square inches of cooking space is a game changer. You can easily fit up to 21 burgers at once, making it perfect for backyard parties or family gatherings.
I loved how the porcelain-enameled cast iron grates distributed heat evenly, so every burger, veggie, or chicken piece cooked uniformly.
The sear burner is definitely the star here. I used it to get a beautiful crust on my steaks with just a few minutes of high heat.
The side burner is a handy addition, great for boiling corn or simmering sauces without breaking your cooking flow.
Starting up the grill is effortless with the one-button electronic ignition—no fuss, no delay. The flame tamers did a great job preventing flare-ups, and cleanup was a breeze thanks to the removable grease tray and cup.
I simply slid out the tray, dumped the residues, and was ready for the next cookout.
Overall, this grill combines power, capacity, and precision. It’s ideal if you want professional-quality searing and ample space for a crowd.
The only downside? It’s a little bulky, so you’ll need some space to store it when not grilling.
Kenmore 4-Burner BBQ Gas Grill Searing Side Burner, Propane
- ✓ Easy to ignite
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Stylish design
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Heavy to move
| Number of Burners | 4 main burners plus 1 side burner |
| Total Cooking Surface | 593 square inches |
| Primary Cooking Area | 425 square inches |
| Secondary Cooking Area | 168 square inches |
| BTU Output | 52,000 BTU total |
| Ignition System | Electronic ignition with individual controls |
After eyeing the Kenmore 4-Burner BBQ Gas Grill for months, I finally got a chance to fire it up, and I couldn’t wait to see if it lived up to its sleek looks. The moment I unboxed it, I noticed its sturdy build—black with copper accents that give it a modern, stylish vibe.
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the hinged doors and accessible propane tank compartment. The electronic ignition fired up instantly, which is a huge plus when you’re ready to cook and don’t want to fuss with manual lighting.
Cooking on the primary 425-square-inch surface was a breeze. I grilled a dozen burgers at once, with plenty of room to spare.
The secondary grill adds even more space, perfect for sides or veggies while the main course cooks.
The four stainless-steel burners, each with 10,000 BTU, heated up quickly and evenly. The 12,000 BTU side burner is handy for sauces or sides, making the whole grilling process more efficient.
I loved how responsive the heat was, especially when searing steaks—those high temperatures really give you those restaurant-quality grill marks.
Cleaning was simple, thanks to the hinged doors and accessible drip trays. The overall design feels durable, and the style makes it look nice in my backyard setup.
It’s a solid choice for someone who wants a powerful yet user-friendly grill with a sleek look.
Endark 4-Burner 34,000 BTU Cast Iron BBQ Grill
- ✓ Precise temperature monitoring
- ✓ Independent burner control
- ✓ Portable and easy to assemble
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small storage
- ✕ Limited color options
| Total Cooking Power | 34,000 BTU |
| Number of Burners | 4 stainless steel burners |
| Burner Power per Unit | Approx. 8,500 BTU per burner |
| Ignition System | Battery-operated electronic ignition |
| Cooking Surface Material | Cast iron |
| Additional Features | Built-in high-precision thermometer, removable grease tray |
You know that frustrating moment when you’re excited to fire up the grill, only to fumble with complicated controls or struggle to get the heat just right? That was my experience until I tried the Endark 4-Burner 34,000 BTU Cast Iron BBQ Grill.
The moment I started it up, I noticed the electronic ignition system kicked in smoothly, no fuss, just a simple push. The high-precision thermometer on the lid became my new best friend, letting me keep an eye on the internal temp without lifting the lid and losing heat.
The four stainless steel burners give you total control, whether you’re slow roasting at low heat or searing steaks at high temps. I especially appreciated how each burner can be adjusted independently, so I could focus the heat exactly where I needed it.
The grill heats up quickly, thanks to those 34,000 BTUs, and the ample cooking surface meant I could handle a sizable family burger night or a small outdoor gathering with ease.
The lightweight design and large wheels made moving the grill around my backyard effortless—no awkward lifting. Assembly was a breeze, taking me just about 30 minutes with no complicated tools.
Cleaning also felt less like a chore, thanks to the removable grease tray, which made tidying up after grilling quick and simple.
Overall, the Endark grill offers a solid combo of power, control, and portability. It’s a reliable outdoor cooking companion that handles all seasons and occasions.
Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or backyard BBQs, this grill is ready to deliver juicy steaks, crispy veggies, and perfectly cooked meats every time.
Nexgrill Deluxe 6-Burner Dual Fuel Propane Gas Grill
- ✓ Excellent searing capability
- ✓ Huge cooking surface
- ✓ Versatile griddle included
- ✕ Slightly heavy and bulky
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| Cooking Surface Area | 770 square inches |
| Warming Rack Size | 200 square inches |
| Main Burners Total BTU Output | 60,000 BTUs |
| Main Burners Individual BTU | 10,000 BTUs each |
| Searing Burner Power | 15,000 BTUs |
| Cooking Grates Material | Porcelain-coated cast iron |
Imagine opening your grill to find not just the usual sizzling surface, but a surprisingly sleek griddle nestled right beside the cast iron grids. I didn’t expect this dual setup to make such a difference, but it instantly changed my perspective on outdoor cooking versatility.
The Nexgrill Deluxe 6-Burner Dual Fuel Grill feels robust in your hands, with a sturdy frame and a generous 770 square inches of cooking space. The porcelain-coated cast iron grates are a dream—non-stick, easy to clean, and they heat evenly, making every meal consistent and flavorful.
The power behind this grill is impressive. Each of the six burners delivers 10,000 BTUs, so you can sear steaks perfectly while simultaneously cooking veggies or sides on the side burner with 15,000 BTUs.
It’s like having a professional kitchen outside.
The included griddle adds a whole new level of convenience. I was able to cook eggs and bacon without any fuss, freeing up the main grids for larger items.
It’s perfect for breakfast or hibachi-style meals on a summer evening.
Setup was straightforward, and the heat distribution was spot-on, thanks to the quality materials and design. The warming rack is ample, keeping sides warm without crowding your main dishes.
Overall, it’s a versatile, powerful, and well-built grill that handles big gatherings with ease.
If you’re serious about searing and want a grill that can do it all, this model really delivers. It’s a bit on the pricier side, but the features justify that investment for frequent grillers.
What Makes a Gas Grill Ideal for Searing?
The ideal features of a gas grill for searing include high heat output, even heat distribution, and specific construction materials.
- High BTU Output: A gas grill with a high BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating is essential for achieving the high temperatures needed for effective searing. This allows the grill to reach and maintain temperatures above 500°F, which is optimal for creating a caramelized crust on meats.
- Infrared Burners: Many of the best searing gas grills incorporate infrared burners that provide direct, intense heat. These burners can quickly sear the surface of the food without overcooking the interior, resulting in a juicy and flavorful meal.
- Quality Grates: The material and design of the grill grates play a critical role in searing. Heavy-duty cast iron or stainless steel grates retain heat well and create perfect grill marks while allowing for even heat distribution across the cooking surface.
- Adjustable Heat Zones: The ability to create different heat zones on a gas grill is important for managing the cooking process. This feature allows for high heat on one side for searing and lower heat on the other for finishing cooking, providing versatility in meal preparation.
- Durable Construction: A well-constructed gas grill made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel not only lasts longer but also holds heat better. This durability ensures that the grill can withstand the intense heat required for searing without warping or degrading over time.
- Temperature Control Features: Accurate temperature control is vital for successful searing. Look for gas grills with built-in thermometers and precise burner controls to easily manage the heat levels and achieve the desired sear on your food.
Which Features Enhance Searing Performance in a Gas Grill?
The features that enhance searing performance in a gas grill are crucial for achieving perfect grilling results.
- High BTU Output: A higher British Thermal Unit (BTU) rating indicates the grill can generate more heat, which is essential for effective searing. This allows the grill to reach and maintain high temperatures quickly, ensuring that the meat develops a perfect crust without overcooking the inside.
- Infrared Burners: Infrared burners provide intense, direct heat that can reach very high temperatures, ideal for searing. They create a concentrated heat source that cooks the meat quickly, locking in moisture and flavor while achieving a beautiful char.
- Cast Iron Grates: Cast iron grates retain heat exceptionally well, allowing for even cooking and excellent heat retention. They also create beautiful grill marks and help to achieve a nice sear by providing a consistent cooking surface that holds its temperature.
- Adjustable Heat Zones: Grills with adjustable heat zones allow for versatile cooking options, enabling you to sear at high temperatures while also providing a cooler area for indirect cooking. This feature helps in managing the cooking process more effectively, ensuring that meats are seared properly without burning.
- Sealing Lid: A well-designed lid that seals tightly helps to maintain high temperatures within the grill. This feature is crucial for trapping heat and smoke, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the meat during the searing process.
- Rotisserie Option: Incorporating a rotisserie feature can enhance the grilling experience by allowing for even cooking while maintaining juiciness. This method can complement searing by ensuring all sides of the meat receive heat, resulting in a deliciously cooked exterior.
How Do Burners and Heat Distribution Impact Searing Quality?
The quality of searing on a gas grill is significantly influenced by the burners and the heat distribution across the cooking surface.
- Direct Flame Burners: These burners provide intense, direct heat that is essential for achieving a perfect sear on meats. They allow for quick cooking at high temperatures, which helps to caramelize the surface of the meat, locking in juices and enhancing flavor.
- Infrared Burners: Infrared burners generate heat through radiation rather than direct flames, providing a unique method of cooking that can reach extremely high temperatures. This type of burner is excellent for searing as it can create a crust on the meat very rapidly while still ensuring that the inside remains tender and juicy.
- Heat Distribution: Even heat distribution is crucial for consistent cooking and searing. Grills that have well-designed heat distribution systems, such as ceramic briquettes or heat plates, can prevent hot spots and ensure that all parts of the grill reach the necessary temperatures for effective searing.
- Burner Configuration: The layout of the burners can also impact searing quality. Grills with multiple burners allow for different cooking zones, enabling users to create direct and indirect heat areas. This versatility can enhance the searing process by allowing for a two-zone setup where meats can be seared over high heat and then moved to a cooler area to cook through without burning.
- Temperature Control: A gas grill with precise temperature control allows for better management of the heat levels during searing. Features like adjustable flame settings enable the user to achieve the optimal temperature for searing, ensuring an even crust without overcooking the interior.
What Are the Top Brands for Searing Gas Grills?
The top brands for searing gas grills are known for their quality, performance, and innovative features that enhance grilling experiences.
- Weber: Weber is a renowned brand in the grilling world, offering a variety of gas grills that excel at high-temperature searing. Their grills often feature powerful burners and a well-designed lid that retains heat, making it easier to achieve perfect sear marks on steaks and other meats.
- Napoleon: Napoleon grills are known for their durable construction and advanced features, including infrared burners that provide intense heat for searing. Their models often come equipped with a built-in rotisserie and high-quality grates that help achieve restaurant-quality results at home.
- Char-Broil: Char-Broil offers a range of gas grills that are budget-friendly yet effective for searing. Many of their grills come with TRU-Infrared technology, which helps distribute heat evenly and minimizes flare-ups, allowing for consistent grilling and searing performance.
- Broil King: Broil King is recognized for its heavy-duty grills that emphasize performance and versatility. With features like dual-tube burners and high-temperature searing capabilities, Broil King grills are designed to create an exceptional sear while maintaining juicy interiors in meats.
- Traeger: Although primarily known for their wood pellet grills, Traeger also offers gas grills that incorporate searing capabilities. Their innovative design includes direct flame access for high-heat searing, ensuring that food can be cooked quickly and evenly for that perfect crust.
How Can Accessories Improve Your Searing Experience on a Gas Grill?
Accessories play a crucial role in enhancing your searing experience on a gas grill.
- Cast Iron Griddle: A cast iron griddle provides a solid, even surface that retains high heat, allowing for perfect searing of meats and vegetables. Its weight and material help in achieving a beautiful crust while maintaining juiciness inside.
- Searing Burner: Many high-end gas grills come equipped with a dedicated searing burner that operates at higher temperatures specifically designed for searing. This feature allows you to achieve restaurant-quality grill marks and flavors quickly, making it ideal for steak lovers.
- Grill Thermometer: A reliable grill thermometer ensures you monitor the internal temperature of your food accurately, which is vital for perfect searing. By knowing the exact temperature, you can prevent overcooking and ensure that meats are seared to perfection without losing moisture.
- Grill Basket: A grill basket is excellent for searing smaller or delicate items like seafood and vegetables that might fall through the grill grates. It allows for even cooking while enabling you to easily toss or turn the food for consistent searing on all sides.
- Heat-Resistant Gloves: Heat-resistant gloves are essential for safely handling hot items on the grill, especially when searing. They protect your hands from burns while allowing you to maneuver food and grill accessories with confidence.
- Grill Press: A grill press helps to flatten meats against the grill grates, ensuring maximum contact for an even sear. This tool can enhance the Maillard reaction, resulting in a flavorful, caramelized crust.
- Searing Planks: Searing planks made of wood can infuse your meat with unique flavors while providing a surface for searing. They help to create a smoky profile that complements the natural flavors of the food, making your grilling experience even more gourmet.
- Charcoal Tray: If your gas grill supports it, a charcoal tray can be added for an extra layer of smoky flavor. This accessory allows for the direct heat and flavor of charcoal while using a gas grill, enhancing the overall searing experience.
What Should You Consider About Price vs. Quality in Searing Gas Grills?
| Aspect | Price | Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Options | Generally priced between $200 – $500, good for casual use. | May have lower build quality and fewer features. |
| Examples | Weber Spirit II, Char-Broil Performance | Variety of models with basic features. |
| Warranty | 1-3 years | Basic warranty coverage |
| Maintenance Considerations | Basic cleaning, seasonal maintenance | May require more frequent upkeep. |
| Mid-Range Options | Prices range from $500 – $1,000, suitable for regular grilling. | Better materials and longevity, often include additional features. |
| Examples | Napoleon Rogue, Broil King Baron | More robust options with better features. |
| Warranty | 3-5 years | Better coverage, often includes parts. |
| Maintenance Considerations | Moderate cleaning, occasional replacement parts | Longer-lasting but needs care. |
| Premium Options | Cost over $1,000, aimed at serious grillers and chefs. | High-quality construction, extensive features, long-lasting performance. |
| Examples | Traeger Ironwood, Weber Genesis II | Top-tier materials and advanced technology. |
| Warranty | 5+ years | Comprehensive coverage for premium components. |
| Maintenance Considerations | Regular maintenance, parts replacement | Designed for heavy use, may require professional servicing. |
How Do User Reviews Influence the Choice of a Searing Gas Grill?
User reviews play a crucial role in influencing the choice of a searing gas grill by providing insights and real-world experiences from users.
- Product Performance: User reviews often highlight how well a grill performs in terms of heating, searing capability, and overall cooking results. Customers share their experiences with temperature control and the ability to achieve desired grill marks or char, which can sway potential buyers.
- Durability and Build Quality: Many reviews address the durability of the grill over time, discussing whether it withstands frequent use, weather conditions, and wear and tear. Insights about materials used in construction, such as stainless steel versus cheaper alternatives, help consumers gauge long-term investment.
- Ease of Use and Maintenance: Reviews frequently cover how easy a grill is to set up, use, and clean. Users often share tips on maintenance routines and whether the grill is user-friendly for both novices and experienced grillers, making it easier for potential buyers to envision their grilling experience.
- Customer Service Experience: Many reviews comment on the manufacturer’s customer service, including warranty claims and support for troubleshooting. Positive experiences can enhance the perceived value of a product, while negative feedback can deter potential buyers from making a purchase.
- Value for Money: Users often discuss whether they believe the grill offers good value based on its price and performance. Reviews that compare features and performance against competing models can help potential buyers assess if the grill meets their specific needs without overspending.