Best Gas Grills With Side Burner: Top Picks
Lead Gas Grill Technician & Senior BBQ Equipment Editor at OutdoorGasGrills · NFI Certified Gas Specialist · KCBS Certified Pitmaster · 14+ Years Grill Diagnostics · 14+ years in gas grill mechanical repair, propane/natural gas flow calibration, and hands-on outdoor cooking equipment testing
The best best gas grills with side burner is the Electactic Stainless Steel 4-Burner, the only model in this lineup that pairs a full 42,000 BTU output with a stainless cabinet-style build at a value-tier price. It's the pick for anyone who wants a real outdoor kitchen setup, complete with a dedicated side burner for pots and sauces, without dropping into premium territory.
Want a bigger cooking surface instead? The Nexgrill 5-Burner gets you there, as long as you're okay stepping up in price for the extra grate area and five-burner layout.
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This guide goes beyond spec sheets. We've cross-checked verified buyer feedback against manufacturer data for every model here, and we've flagged the buyers who should skip this category entirely (apartment-only cooks, charcoal loyalists, and anyone needing a true built-in).
Everything below comes from current Amazon product data, manufacturer specifications, and each product's owner track record. Our editorial team has not physically unboxed or grilled on these units; the verdicts reflect what verified buyers and spec sheets consistently report in 2026.
Quick Answer: The Best Gas Grills with Side Burner
The Electactic Stainless Steel 4-Burner takes the top spot for value-conscious buyers who still want real grilling power. Here is the full ranked list:
- Electactic Stainless Steel 4-Burner Gas Grill (Best Overall Value): 42,000 BTU across four burners with a stainless build.
- Nexgrill 5-Burner Gas Grill Side Burner (Best for Large Gatherings): Five-burner layout with the biggest cooking footprint here.
- 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill Side Burner (Best Mid-Range All-Rounder): Solid 4-burner setup with the highest rating in this lineup.
- 3 Burner Propane Gas Grill (Best Compact Pick): Smaller footprint, 39,000 BTU, cast iron grates.
- Nexgrill Propane 4 Burner Gas Grill (Best Budget Stainless): Entry-level Nexgrill with stainless body and side burner.
Thinking about charcoal, built-ins, or apartment-only cooking? Jump to Who Should NOT Buy below before you spend anything.
Comparison Table
Here's the lineup at a glance: photo, product, who it's built for, and our /10 score.
| Photo | Product | Best for | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Electactic Stainless Steel 4-Burner Gas Grill | Best Overall Value | 8.7/10 | Check price → |
 | Nexgrill 5-Burner Gas Grill Side Burner | Large Gatherings & Entertaining | 8.4/10 | Check price → |
 | 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill Side Burner | Best-Rated Mid-Range Pick | 8.3/10 | Check price → |
 | 3 Burner Propane Gas Grill | Compact Patios & Couples | 7.9/10 | Check price → |
 | Nexgrill Propane 4 Burner Gas Grill | Budget Stainless Starter | 7.4/10 | Check price → |
Scroll sideways on small screens to see every column.
Electactic Stainless Steel 4-Burner Gas Grill: Best Overall for Backyard Cooks
Nexgrill 5-Burner Gas Grill Side Burner: Best for Large Gatherings
4-Burner Propane Gas Grill Side Burner: Best-Rated Mid-Range Pick
3 Burner Propane Gas Grill: Best Compact Pick for Smaller Patios
Nexgrill Propane 4 Burner Gas Grill: Best Budget Stainless Starter
Buying Guide: Heat Output, Build Materials, Size and Fuel Efficiency
Choosing the right gas grill isn’t just about counting burners. You need to match the unit’s capabilities to your actual cooking habits. Here are the four factors that matter most when comparing these five models.
Is High BTU Output Always Better for Grilling?
Not necessarily, but it does affect how quickly you can reach searing temperatures. Total BTUs measure the combined heat potential of all burners. In this lineup, outputs range from 39,000 BTU on the 3 Burner Propane Gas Grill to 42,000 BTU on the Electactic model.
Higher numbers mean faster preheats and better recovery when you open the lid. However, consistent heat control matters more than raw power for most home cooks. If you mostly grill burgers and veggies, 39,000 BTU is plenty.
If you frequently sear steaks or cook large roasts, aim for 42,000+ BTU like the Electactic Stainless Steel 4-Burner.
How Do Stainless Steel and Painted Steel Compare?
The material affects longevity and maintenance. Stainless steel resists rust and looks sleeker, but it requires regular wiping to avoid water spots and corrosion, especially near coasts. Painted steel is cheaper but chips easily, exposing bare metal to moisture.
The Nexgrill 4-Burner uses stainless for durability at a lower cost, while the 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill relies on painted finishes. For long-term outdoor exposure, stainless wins. But if you store your grill indoors or cover it religiously, painted steel saves money upfront.
Check out our guide on keeping your equipment running smoothly for tips on extending the life of either finish.
What Does Side Burner Utility Actually Mean?
A side burner adds versatility by letting you cook sides, sauces, or boil water simultaneously with the main grilling action. This is crucial for entertaining because it frees up the main grates. All five picks here include one.
Look at BTU ratings for the side burner specifically; higher output boils water faster. The Nexgrill 5-Burner’s side burner reportedly handles stockpots well. Don't assume all side burners are equal.
Some struggle with large pots due to low flame intensity. If you plan to make chili or pasta alongside grilled meats, verify the side burner has at least 10,000 BTUs.
Why Does Physical Footprint Matter More Than You Think?
Gas grills with side burners take up significant patio space. Measure your available area before buying. The 3-burner model is the most compact, suitable for narrow decks.
The 5-burner Nexgrill is wide and needs clearance from walls and fences per safety codes. Remember that propane tanks sit inside the cabinet, adding depth. Ensure you have room to roll the grill out for cleaning.
Improper spacing violates fire safety guidelines set by organizations like the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Always leave at least 10 feet of clearance from structures unless specified otherwise by the manufacturer.
Who Should NOT Buy Best Gas Grills with Side Burner
This category is the wrong purchase for three specific types of buyers. Here's who they are, and what to look at instead.
You Live in an Apartment or Condo with Strict Rules
Most multi-unit dwellings prohibit open-flame appliances on balconies due to fire risk. Even electric grills sometimes face restrictions. A gas grill with a side burner definitely won’t fly.
Instead, look for countertop electric griddles or indoor-safe air fryers designed for small spaces. These offer similar convenience without violating lease agreements or building codes.
You Are Committed to Charcoal Flavor Profiles
If you believe gas lacks authentic smoky taste, no amount of briquettes in a flavorizer bar will convince you. Gas grills excel at convenience and temperature control, not smoke infusion. For true barbecue enthusiasts, a dedicated offset smoker or a kettle charcoal grill remains superior.
Investing in a gas hybrid often leads to disappointment for purists. Stick to lump charcoal and wood chunks for genuine smoke rings.
You Need Permanent Built-In Kitchen Integration
Freestanding grills like these aren’t designed for drop-in installation into masonry islands. They lack the insulation kits and venting requirements for safe enclosure. Trying to force them into a built-in setup creates serious safety hazards.
If you want an outdoor kitchen, buy a modular built-in grill system specifically engineered for cabinetry integration. These cost significantly more but ensure proper airflow and structural integrity.
Final Verdict
The Electactic Stainless Steel 4-Burner stands out as the best overall value. Its 42,000 BTU output, stainless construction, and integrated side burner check every box for the average backyard chef without demanding a premium budget. It balances power, durability, and utility perfectly.
Want maximum cooking surface for crowds? Get the Nexgrill 5-Burner. Its extra burner and wider grates handle large parties effortlessly, though it demands more patio real estate.
Tight on space or cooking for two? The 3 Burner Propane Gas Grill delivers cast iron quality in a compact frame, proving you don’t need bulk to grill well.
Still unsure? Revisit the Who Should NOT Buy section above to confirm this category fits your lifestyle before clicking checkout.
FAQ
What's the best Gas Grills with Side Burner overall?
The Electactic Stainless Steel 4-Burner Gas Grill takes the top spot. It combines 42,000 BTU power, durable stainless steel, and a functional side burner at a competitive value-tier price.
Do I really need a side burner on my gas grill?
Yes, if you entertain frequently. A side burner lets you prepare sauces, boil corn, or keep mashed potatoes warm simultaneously with grilling meat. It turns a single-task appliance into a full outdoor kitchen station.
Can I convert any of these grills to natural gas?
Generally, yes. Most manufacturers sell conversion kits separately. However, doing so usually voids the warranty.
Always consult the manual and consider hiring a professional plumber for the connection to ensure safety compliance.
How much propane does a side burner consume?
Usage varies by setting, but expect roughly 0.5 to 1 hour of continuous high-flame operation per pound of propane. Since it runs independently, using only the side burner extends tank life significantly compared to firing all main burners.
Are stainless steel grills worth the extra cost over painted ones?
For long-term ownership, absolutely. Stainless resists rust and maintains aesthetics better under UV exposure and weather. While painted models save money initially, replacement costs due to corrosion often exceed the price difference within two seasons.
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