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Choosing a grill with a side burner is about reclaiming your stove, patio space, and sanity during a cookout. That extra burner means sauces simmer while steaks sear, and you never run inside to boil sides. This guide breaks down 11 models, focusing on the heat, build, and real owner experiences that matter most.
I’m Min — the founder and writer behind Gadgets Feed. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
Whether you’re upgrading from a basic model or buying your first serious cooker, you’ll find the right barbecue grill with side burner for your patio, your cooking style, and your budget.
Our Picks at a Glance
How To Choose The Best Barbecue Grill With Side Burner
The best grill for you balances raw power with usable space and a build that survives the weather. A side burner is a fantastic convenience, but you need to verify the quality of the main burners first, since they do the heavy lifting.
Decoding BTU and Cooking Area
BTU (British Thermal Units) is a measure of heat input. A higher number can mean faster preheating, but it is only half the story. You should pair that number with the cooking surface area to see if the heat is spread out or concentrated. A massive grill with modest BTUs might struggle to sear properly.
The Grate Material Matters
You will typically see stainless steel, porcelain-coated cast iron, or bare cast iron grates. Porcelain-coated cast iron holds heat beautifully for a dark sear and resists rust, but it chips if dropped. Stainless is lighter and corrosion-resistant but doesn’t hold heat as aggressively.
Beyond the Main Burners
Look at the side burner’s BTU rating—a higher number means faster simmering or boiling. If you love steaks, consider a dedicated infrared sear burner, which cranks out intense radiant heat to crust the outside of meat fast.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Cooking Area | Total BTU | Grill Configuration | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monument 4+2★ Best Overall | Versatile Family Feasts | 723 sq in | 72,000 | 4+2 | Amazon |
| Electactic 3-BurnerBest Value | Easy Assembly & Value | 373 sq in | 34,000 | 3-Burner | Amazon |
| Captiva Designs 4-BurnerTop Performer | Even Heat Distribution | 545 sq in | 42,000 | 4-Burner | Amazon |
| Kenmore 4-Burner | Long-Term Reliability | 622 sq in | 53,000 | 4-Burner Cart | Amazon |
| Endark 6-Burner | Max Burner Count | 580 sq in | 68,500 | 6-Burner | Amazon |
| Royal Gourmet GA5403B | Roasting & Large Parties | 666 sq in | 64,000 | 5-Burner | Amazon |
| Charbroil Pro Series | 3-in-1 Grilling Versatility | 802.9 sq in | — | 4-Burner w/ Griddle | Amazon |
| Weber Genesis E-335 | Consistent Brand Quality | — | — | 3+1 | Amazon |
| Weber Genesis S-435 | Premium Prep Space | — | — | 4-Burner | Amazon |
| Napoleon Prestige 500 (LP) | Steakhouse Sear & Rotisserie | 500 sq in | 48,000 | 4+1+1 | Amazon |
| Napoleon Prestige 500 (NG) | Plumbed-In Gas Convenience | 500 sq in | 48,000 | 4+1+1+1 | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Monument Grills Larger 4+2 Burner
Our pick — 4.5★ from 600+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.
The backyard workhorse that pairs a serious sear station with a window so you watch dinner cook.
This is the pick for the host who cooks for a crowd and wants every tool on deck. The huge 723 sq in surface beats the standard Electactic 3-burner by a 1.9x gap, giving you real estate for a full party menu at once. Power comes from four stainless main burners plus a dedicated side burner and a high-heat sear burner, totaling a potent 72,000 BTU.
What wins people over is the build quality—it is the single most-discussed strength in the owner feedback. Buyers report the porcelain-coated cast iron grates and stainless flame tamers deliver even heat, and the Clearview lid window means you monitor food without lifting the lid and losing heat. The infrared sear burner is a favorite for steaks, and many owners have mastered the reverse-sear technique on it.
The catch is in the fine control. Owners mention the low setting runs too hot with the lid down—it can reach 700-900°F—and the side burner is hard to simmer. The glass window needs frequent cleaning, and in one case it broke during a high-heat warm-up. Assembly is a mixed bag, with some sharp edges and vague diagrams for the side burner lines.
Sear Powerhouse: The 72,000 BTU output and dedicated sear burner make it a star for steak lovers.
Watch the Low Setting: Owners advise caution with the lid closed, as the low setting can still soar to 700-900°F.
Reach for this if: you need maximum cooking area and a serious sear burner for large gatherings.
Look elsewhere if: you want precise low-temp simmering on the side burner and don’t want to babysit the glass lid.
2. Electactic 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill
A smartly built 3-burner that puts the focus on easy assembly and fast, even heat.
If you are new to gas grills or moving to a smaller patio, this one respects your time. It is more compact than the Monument above—its 22.24 x 48.23 x 43.31 inch footprint is about 17% narrower in depth—yet still delivers a strong 34,000 BTU (a measure of heat output) across three stainless burners, plus a potent 10,500 BTU side burner for sauces. The built-in gauge reads 0-1000°F, so you can dial in the exact temperature for delicate foods.
The thing everyone raves about is the assembly experience. The instructions are routinely called the best ever, with buyers reporting a 90-minute solo build and a durable, sturdy result. Performance is equally praised: customers note it reaches 650°F in under 10 minutes with all burners high., and owners appreciate that there are no cold or hot spots across the grate. The rear-draw grease tray channels oil away for easy cleanup.
The trade-off is the smaller overall capacity and a few fit-and-finish notes. At 373 sq in, it is the entry-level surface size in this list. One owner flagged that the burner valve doesn’t feel very secure, and another found the igniter unreliable—though that one suspects user error. It’s a compact package that outperforms pricier rivals for the price.
easy Start
- Rapid preheat to 650°F in under 10 minutes
- Clear, praised assembly instructions for a 90-minute build
- Rear-draw grease tray simplifies cleanup after each cook
Compact Reality
- 373 sq in surface is the smallest in this lineup
- One owner noted the burner valve feels unsecured
Who it beats: any similarly priced grill with confusing assembly instructions or uneven heat.
The honest limit: if you regularly cook for over six people, the smaller surface will feel cramped.
3. Captiva Designs 4-Burner Propane BBQ Grill
Even, rapid heat from upgraded porcelain-enameled cast iron grates that season fast.
This cabinet-style grill earns its reputation on how evenly it cooks. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates—400 sq in primary and 145 sq in warming rack—distribute heat consistently across the 545 sq in total. Reviewers point out it preheats in under five minutes thanks to the double-layer lid., and the enamel grates season quickly, meaning minimal sticking by the second use. Four stainless burners produce 42,000 BTU.
What wins people over is the heat distribution—owners consistently describe even burners with good searing, accurate temperature control, and a precise thermometer. The full-size pullout oil drip tray makes grease management simple, and the large bottom cabinet swallows utensils, seasonings, or a whole propane tank. The side burner is genuinely useful for frying or sides while the main grates work.
The honest concern here is rust resistance. Multiple shoppers say the bottom pan completely disintegrating within six months, which is a real durability question for a grill kept outdoors. Assembly is reasonable at about two hours, though the manual has one confusing step involving a back bar that is never reinstalled. It’s a great cook, but you’ll want a cover and a dry spot.
Even Cooker: The enameled cast iron grates paired with flame tamers produce consistent, controllable heat.
Weather Watch: The bottom pan’s rust resistance is the recurring complaint—keep it sheltered.
Best for: cooks who prioritize fast preheating and even heat for a mid-size family.
Think twice if: your grill sits exposed to rain all year—durability reports point to rust issues.
4. Kenmore 4-Burner Gas Grill
A reliable cook with a track record for longevity and an open cart design that’s easy to move.
Kenmore brings a legacy of durability that the review history backs up. The open-cart design holds a 626 sq in total cooking space—442 sq in primary plus an 180 sq in warming rack—and generates 53,000 BTUs across four burners plus a side burner. The cast iron grates retain heat well for solid sears on steaks, fish, burgers, and veal.
The thing that stands out in owner stories is the lifespan. Long-term buyers report getting about ten years out of each Kenmore with just one burner replacement, keeping the grill under a roof and using the matching cover. One owner inherited a Kenmore from a parent that lasted a decade between the two of them, and the consistent cooking quality kept them loyal. The electronic ignition starts reliably at the push of a button.
The assembly experience is the main friction point. Some owners find it merely time-consuming, while others describe a frustrating build where nothing lines up and screws strip easily. There are also occasional reports of missing parts—no regulator, no side burner hose, no manifold—which stalls the setup until replacements arrive. The value opinion is split, with some feeling it’s worth the price and others unconvinced.
Long Haul Comfort
- Owners mention around ten years of service with basic maintenance
- 626 sq in total surface fits a crowd comfortably
- Push-button electronic ignition for reliable starts
Setup Hurdles
- Assembly can be time-consuming with alignment issues
- Some boxes arrive missing connection parts like the regulator
The standout spec: a 53,000 BTU output and cast iron grates for a consistent long-term cook.
Who should plan ahead: if you dislike assembly, budget a full afternoon or find a helper.
5. Endark 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill
Six main burners give you maximum zone control for cooking multiple dishes at once.
If your cookout menu is a buffet of different foods needing different heats, this configuration gives you the most flexibility. Six stainless steel burners produce a hefty 68,500 BTUs, and each one is independently controllable across the 580 sq in ceramic-enameled grate. The 8,500 BTU side stove burner handles sauces or boiling water while the main burners work.
What owners love most is the sheer space and heat output. Reviews highlight that there’s plenty of room to fit food for a whole family, and the heat output is exactly what they needed. It heats up very fast and maintains temperature well, and the full-sized removable grease tray slides out for convenient cleaning. The four wheels—two lockable—make it easy to roll across grass or patio.
The durability feedback is mixed, with several owners reporting the tray warping over time. Assembly requires attention because some screws have tight access, and one owner noted spot weld blemishes that took away from the new-grill shine. The upgraded screw pack is designed to be precise, reducing missing parts, but the build still takes about an hour and a half.
Zone Cooking: Six burners let you run a hot sear zone next to a gentle simmer zone simultaneously.
Durability Watch: The grease tray is prone to warping, so handle it with care during cleaning.
Best for: cooks who juggle several dishes at once and want independent heat control.
Who might skip: those who only need a simple 3-burner setup and don’t want the extra maintenance surface area.
6. Royal Gourmet GA5403B 5-Burner Gas Grill
A 5-burner layout with a rotisserie kit included for slow-roasting whole birds.
This blue cabinet-style grill is built to feed a party. The total 666 sq in cooking area includes 501 sq in of primary space and a 165 sq in warming rack, comfortably handling 10-12 guests or up to 26 burgers. Four main burners each push 10,000 BTU, joined by a 14,000 BTU sear burner and a 10,000 BTU side burner that doubles as a prep shelf when the lid is closed.
What owners appreciate is the even, quick heating and the versatility. The gas grill comes with a rotisserie kit included, and customers note the top rack is great for poppers and mushrooms while the sear burner delivers excellent results on steak and wings. Assembly is described as Lego-like by some—about two hours solo—with the electronic ignition firing up instantly.
The reliability and value opinions are genuinely split. Some owners say it performs better than Weber grills, while others report the igniter stopping after three days or erratic burner controls. The grease pan is easy to remove but difficult to get clean, and a few owners received units damaged in shipping. For the price, it’s a feature-packed option, but quality control appears inconsistent.
Feast Capacity
- 666 sq in total area fits up to 26 burgers at once
- Rotisserie kit included for whole chickens and roasts
- 14,000 BTU sear burner for proper steak crusts
Consistency Concerns
- Reliability reports vary—some owners see igniter or burner issues
- Grease pan is hard to get fully clean
Standout value: a 5-burner plus sear and rotisserie configuration for serious party cooking.
The honest caveat: quality control is hit-or-miss, so buy from a seller with easy returns.
7. Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner with Side Burner
The rare grill that switches between gas, griddle, and charcoal cooking modes in under a minute.
This is the chameleon of the lineup, and owners call it the best grill they’ve ever had. The 3-in-1 design lets you sear steaks over gas, swap in the included griddle insert for bacon and eggs or smash burgers, or add charcoal trays for smoky BBQ flavor. The Amplifire infrared cooking system spreads heat evenly and reduces flare-ups for juicier results.
What wins people over is the cooking performance and versatility. Reviewers point out perfect burgers and steaks in under 10 minutes, with no flare-ups until the very end. The heavy steel construction feels built to last, and the 802.9 sq in total cooking space—535 sq in primary plus a 200 sq in warming rack—handles up to 25 burgers or 12 steaks at once. It’s backed by a 3-year limited warranty.
Assembly is the recurring friction point, described as tricky at the end with some design flaws, though owners still say it’s well worth the money. The grill is heavy, which speaks to durability but makes the initial setup and moving a two-person job. Charcoal mode takes about twice as long as recommended to heat, so plan ahead if you’re using that function.
Tri-Mode Cooking: Gas, griddle, and charcoal in one unit means you rarely need a second outdoor appliance.
Assembly Quirk: The final assembly steps require patience, and the unit is genuinely heavy.
Reach for this if: you want a single grill that covers steaks, breakfast, and smoky BBQ.
Who it doesn’t suit: buyers who want a quick, solo assembly experience—this one needs a helper and time.
8. Weber Genesis E-335 Gas Grill
Weber’s legendary build quality with a side burner and locking storage locker for tools.
When you buy a Weber, you’re paying for consistency and a trusted name that owners swear by. The Genesis E-335 uses PureBlu burners with a tapered design that creates a consistent, even flame across the grilling surface, and raised flame openings keep food debris from clogging the burners. The porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates retain heat for serious searing.
The FLAVORIZER bars are the secret to the flavor—they catch and vaporize juices, boosting the grilled taste while funneling grease away from the burners to prevent flare-ups. The grill also links to the WEBER CRAFTED Outdoor Kitchen Collection, so you can add a pizza stone, griddle, or Dutch oven later. The pull-out grease tray slides out for quick disposal.
Shoppers say mixed heat output—some praise the even heating, while others say it doesn’t get hot enough for high-heat searing. Value opinions are split between “better value” and “pricey.” Assembly goes smoother with two people, especially when lifting the top part onto the base. Owners in wet climates strongly recommend the matching cover to protect it year-round.
Trusted Legacy: Weber’s reputation for quality is backed by consistent owner satisfaction.
Heat Expectations: Some owners want more raw heat output for the premium price point.
The standout spec: PureBlu burner design that minimizes clogs and corrosion over years of use.
Who should consider: buyers who value a reliable, well-engineered brand above maximum raw BTUs.
9. Weber Genesis S-435 Gas Grill
A stainless steel flagship that pairs four efficient burners with a huge prep and serve table.
This is the Weber for the entertainer who needs room to prep right where the party is. The extra-large side table fits multiple serving trays and cutting boards so everything stays within arm’s reach while you cook. Four high-performance stainless burners deliver a consistent, even flame, and the second-level expandable top grate creates extra grilling capacity for a crowd.
What owners praise is the rapid, even heating and the efficient blue-flame burners that use less propane. Upgraders from Char-Broil report noticeably better heat distribution and a more substantial feel. The slide-out grease tray and neatly designed tank storage keep the cooking area clean, and the sear station produces perfect results on steaks with even cooking.
The assembly is the big caveat—it’s an all-day project for some. Owners describe poor illustrations and unmarked screw bags, with one calling it “not for the faint at heart.” At 220 pounds, this is a substantial unit that needs a permanent outdoor home. The fuel gauge is reported as unreliable, which is a notable annoyance at this price point.
Prep & Cook
- Extra-large side table keeps serving trays and cutting boards handy
- Efficient burners produce even heat with less propane
- Expandable top grate adds a second cooking level
Heavy Lift
- Assembly can take all day with confusing instructions
- 220-pound unit is hard to move once placed
Who it beats: any box-store grill on build quality, heat efficiency, and prep space.
Who it frustrates: anyone expecting a quick assembly—consider hiring a professional or buying pre-assembled.
10. Napoleon Prestige 500 RSIB (Propane)
The infrared Sizzle Zone hits 1800°F in 30 seconds for a true steakhouse crust.
This is the grill for the person who treats a ribeye like a project. The infrared Sizzle Zone side burner hits 1800°F in 30 seconds, delivering a steakhouse-quality sear that locks in juices. Four stainless main burners produce 48,000 BTU-per-hour, and the infrared rear burner powers the included rotisserie kit for perfect whole chickens.
What owners rave about is the build quality and the cooking results. The 500 sq in main cooking space handles 31 burgers at once, with an extra 260 sq in on the warming rack. Buyers report zero flare-ups, oven-like temperature control, and a side sizzle zone that made the best-ever ribeye. The JETFIRE ignition lights each burner instantly, with a backup channel that lets burners light each other.
The reality of this premium pick is the assembly and price. Assembly takes over 4 hours and requires two people, though the instructions are accurate and easy to follow. Not all stainless steel—some owners note the front door alignment is poor, and the wheels are below the quality of the rest. It’s a significant investment, but owners mention it still looks and cooks beautifully after 4 years with original burners.
Sear Mastery: The 1800°F infrared side burner (a burner that uses radiant heat, not open flames) heats up in 30 seconds, giving you a steakhouse-quality crust that other grills in this list can’t match.
The Investment Reality: Premium price and a half-day build, but owners call it worth every effort.
The standout spec: an infrared Sizzle Zone and rear rotisserie burner for restaurant-grade results.
Who it suits: serious home cooks who want a tank-like grill and don’t mind a complex setup.
11. Napoleon Prestige 500 RSIB (Natural Gas)
The same premium Napoleon searing power, plumbed directly into your home’s natural gas line.
For homeowners with a natural gas line on the patio, this is the forever grill. The 120-inch hose gives generous reach, and you’ll never refill a propane tank again. The cooking specs mirror the propane version—48,000 BTU across four stainless burners, 500 sq in of main space, and the infrared Sizzle Zone that heats to 1800 degrees almost immediately.
What owners praise is the sear burner and the build quality. The sear station cooks a room-temperature steak to medium-rare in 2 minutes per side with excellent grill marks. The rotisserie burner is described as “low-maintenance,” returning to perfectly moist kabobs or grilled vegetables in 20 minutes. The JETFIRE ignition and back channel lighting provide reliable starts every time.
The installation is the main consideration—it requires connecting to your gas line and, in many cases, a professional. One owner hired someone for the gas and electricity hookup. The assembly instructions are picture-only and require care, and a few owners note cheap plastic handles and flimsy doors that warp. Napoleon’s customer support is consistently praised for quick, helpful responses.
easy Fuel
- No tank refills—connects directly to your natural gas line
- 120-inch hose provides flexible placement on the patio
- Sear station produces perfect medium-rare in 2 minutes per side.
Pro Installation
- Requires a gas line and typically a professional installer
- Some owners note cheaper handles and door warping
Best for: homeowners with an existing gas line who want perpetual, no-tank grilling.
The honest trade-off: Installation is complex and the upfront cost is steep, but the daily convenience—quick ignition, even heat, and easy cleanup—makes it worth it for frequent grillers.
Understanding the Specs
BTU Output and Searing
BTUs tell you how much heat the burners can generate. Higher numbers mean faster preheats and better searing power, but you need to compare them against the cooking area. A 34,000 BTU grill with a small 373 sq in surface can out-sear a larger grill with the same BTUs spread thin.
Cooking Surface and Grates
The cooking area is measured in square inches and includes the primary grates plus the warming rack. The grate material changes your results: cast iron holds more heat for dark sear marks, while stainless steel is lighter and more rust-resistant.
FAQ
What is the difference between a side burner and a sear burner?
How much BTU do I need for a barbecue grill with a side burner?
Can I use a natural gas grill outdoors?
What does the warming rack do?
How hard is it to assemble a grill with a side burner?
What is an infrared sear burner and do I need one?
How do I clean the grease from a side burner grill?
Is a porcelain-enameled cast iron grate better than stainless steel?
What is the difference between propane and natural gas grills?
How many burgers can I cook at once?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most buyers, the barbecue grill with side burner winner is the Monument Grills 4+2 Burner because it pairs a massive 723 sq in cooking surface with a dedicated infrared sear burner and a Clearview lid window—all at a price that undercuts premium rivals. If you want a true steakhouse sear with an infrared Sizzle Zone that hits 1800°F in 30 seconds, grab the Napoleon Prestige 500 as your splurge pick. And for the budget-conscious host who still wants reliable performance, the Electactic 3-Burner delivers fast heat and easy assembly at a fraction of the cost.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of August 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
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