Best Gas Grills With Side Burners: 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 Endark Upgraded 68,500 BTU 6-Burner. It offers the highest heat output and cooking surface area in this group, making it ideal for large family gatherings or serious backyard chefs who need dedicated zones for searing and simmering simultaneously.
Want a simpler setup instead? The Nexgrill 5-Burner Gas Grill gets you there. It balances power with ease of assembly, though you sacrifice some maximum BTU capacity compared to the top pick.
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This guide highlights critical differences in construction quality and ignition reliability that other reviews often overlook. We specifically identify buyers who should avoid propane setups entirely due to space constraints or local fire codes, saving you potential return hassles.
Everything below relies on current Amazon product data, manufacturer specifications, and aggregated owner feedback. We did not physically test these units ourselves, so treat this as a research-backed analysis rather than a hands-on lab report.
Quick Answer: The Best Gas Grills with Side Burner
Our top recommendation remains the Endark Upgraded 68,500 BTU 6-Burner for its superior thermal performance and stainless steel durability.
- Endark Upgraded 68 500 BTU 6-Burner (Best High-Output Cooking): Delivers massive 68,500 BTU heat across six burners plus a side unit.
- Nexgrill 5-Burner Gas Grill Side Burner (Best Balanced Performance): Offers reliable five-burner heating with a convenient side burner for sauces.
- Nexgrill Propane 4 Burner Gas Grill (Best Compact Stainless Build): Features a durable stainless steel body in a smaller four-burner footprint.
- Royal Gourmet SG6002R 6-Burner Propane Gas (Best Value Large Surface): Provides extensive cooking space at a competitive price point for big groups.
- Veralune 5 Burner Gas Grill Side (Best New Market Entrant): Combines modern aesthetics with solid 68,000 BTU output and ample grate area.
Thinking about charcoal flavor or indoor electric options instead? 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Endark Upgraded 68 500 BTU 6-Burner | High-Output Family Feasts | 8.4/10 | Check price → |
![]() | Nexgrill 5-Burner Gas Grill Side Burner | Reliable Everyday Cooking | 8.1/10 | Check price → |
![]() | Nexgrill Propane 4 Burner Gas Grill | Compact Stainless Durability | 7.8/10 | Check price → |
![]() | Royal Gourmet SG6002R 6-Burner Propane Gas | Budget-Friendly Large Capacity | 7.5/10 | Check price → |
![]() | Veralune 5 Burner Gas Grill Side | Modern Aesthetics & Power | 7.3/10 | Check price → |
Scroll sideways on small screens to see every column.
Endark Upgraded 68 500 BTU 6-Burner: Best Overall for Large Gatherings
Nexgrill 5-Burner Gas Grill Side Burner: Best Balance of Ease and Power
Nexgrill Propane 4 Burner Gas Grill: Best Compact Stainless Option
Royal Gourmet SG6002R 6-Burner Propane Gas: Best Value for Big Groups
Veralune 5 Burner Gas Grill Side: Best Modern Styling Choice
Buying Guide: Heat Output, Construction, and Space Planning
Choosing among these best gas grills with side burner options requires balancing three core factors: thermal capability, material integrity, and physical dimensions. Misjudging any single element leads to frustration or wasted investment. Here’s how to evaluate them correctly based on your specific lifestyle needs.
Is More BTU Always Better?
Not necessarily, but higher numbers provide greater headroom for cold days and large loads. The Endark model boasts 68,500 BTUs, ensuring rapid recovery times when opening lids frequently. However, efficient airflow design matters equally.
A poorly insulated 60,000 BTU grill may perform worse than a well-sealed 45,000 BTU unit. Look for double-walled constructions if you live in windy regions. For most suburban households, 45,000 to 55,000 BTUs suffice unless hosting events for fifteen-plus people routinely.
Check out our top-rated brewers if you find five burners too bulky for your daily routine.
What Does Stainless Steel Actually Mean?
True stainless steel refers to the entire body shell, not just accents. Many cheaper models use aluminized steel coated in paint, which chips and rusts within two seasons. The Nexgrill Propane 4 Burner exemplifies genuine stainless benefits with its seamless welds and corrosion resistance.
Inspect hinge points carefully; plastic brackets degrade quickly under UV exposure. Metal-on-metal connections last decades longer. If budget permits, prioritize full stainless exteriors over porcelain-enamel finishes which crack under thermal shock.
Learn more about maintaining engine health in related topics via routine upkeep guides.
How Much Space Do You Really Need?
Measure twice, buy once. These grills range from compact footprints to sprawling installations. The Royal Gourmet SG6002R demands significant horizontal clearance due to its six-burner layout.
Add three feet on all sides for safe operation according to NFPA guidelines. Balcony dwellers should lean toward the narrower profiles found in the Veralune or basic Nexgrill lines. Remember that side burners extend depth requirements further.
Ensure your gas line reaches comfortably without kinking hoses unnecessarily tight around corners. Proper ventilation prevents carbon monoxide buildup near windows or doors leading indoors.
To see how these factors play out on real picks, compare the Endark Upgraded 68 500 BTU 6-Burner, Nexgrill 5-Burner Gas Grill Side Burner and the Nexgrill Propane 4 Burner Gas Grill reviewed above.
Who Should NOT Buy Best Gas Grills with Side Burner
Gas grills with sideburners add complexity and bulk that simply doesn’t serve every household. If your situation matches any of the following profiles, you’ll likely regret this purchase.
You Live in a Strict HOA or Apartment Complex
Many homeowners associations ban open-flame appliances on balconies entirely. Even if permitted, propane tanks often violate fire code setbacks from building entrances. An electric grill with a built-in hot plate solves both issues instantly.
It plugs into standard outlets, produces zero emissions, and fits within tight spatial constraints without triggering safety inspections. Don’t risk fines or forced removals by assuming your neighbors’ rules apply to you. Read the fine print first.
You Cook Primarily for One or Two People
Six burners are overkill for solo dinners or couple nights. The heat distribution becomes uneven because empty zones waste fuel while occupied zones struggle to maintain stable temperatures. A compact two-burner tabletop model heats faster, cleans easier, and costs less upfront.
You won’t miss the side burner capacity when you’re just reheating leftovers or searing two steaks. Efficiency matters more than excess horsepower here.
You Have Limited Storage Space Year-Round
These units aren’t designed for seasonal disassembly and attic storage. Their large frames occupy permanent patio real estate. If you rent or move frequently, hauling a 68,000 BTU monster through doorways is impractical.
Portable charcoal chimneys or foldable pellet smokers offer mobility without sacrificing flavor depth. Consider whether you actually have a fixed location where this grill can stay assembled permanently before committing.
Final Verdict
For most buyers seeking maximum versatility, the Endark Upgraded 68 500 BTU 6-Burner stands out as the definitive choice. Its combination of high thermal output, robust stainless construction, and dedicated side burner covers nearly every backyard scenario except ultra-tight spaces.
If simplicity trumps power, grab the Nexgrill 5-Burner Gas Grill Side Burner. It delivers reliable performance with far fewer assembly headaches, making it perfect for those who want great food without engineering degrees.
Need serious volume on a budget? The Royal Gourmet SG6002R 6-Burner Propane Gas offers unmatched square footage per dollar. Just accept its lighter build quality and potential alignment quirks during setup.
Still unsure? Revisit the "Who Should NOT Buy" section above. Sometimes skipping this category saves money and frustration better than picking the "right" model does.
FAQ
What's the best Gas Grills with Side Burner overall?
The Endark Upgraded 68,500 BTU 6-Burner leads due to its superior heat output and durable stainless steel frame. It handles large crowds effortlessly while providing precise temperature control across multiple zones.
Do I really need a side burner on my gas grill?
Only if you frequently cook sides like pasta, sauces, or boiled vegetables simultaneously with grilled meats. For simple burgers and dogs, a side burner adds unnecessary cost and cleaning hassle without significant benefit.
How much clearance do these grills require?
Maintain at least 10 feet from combustible structures and 3 feet of open space on all sides for safe operation. Always check local fire codes and manufacturer manuals for specific setback requirements before installation.
Are porcelain-coated grates better than stainless steel ones?
Porcelain coatings resist sticking and simplify cleanup initially but chip easily under harsh scrubbing. Stainless steel lasts longer structurally but requires more frequent degreasing. Choose based on your willingness to perform detailed maintenance versus accepting shorter component lifespans.
Can I convert these propane grills to natural gas?
No, not without professional conversion kits approved by certified technicians. Using incorrect regulators causes dangerous pressure mismatches leading to flashbacks or incomplete combustion. Never attempt DIY conversions on consumer-grade outdoor appliances.
























