Looking for the best Broil King grills in 2026? I have spent the last three summers testing Broil King models side by side, from the portable Porta-Chef to the flagship Regal S 590 Pro IR, and I can tell you the brand punches well above its price tag. Broil King is a Canadian manufacturer (Onward Manufacturing Company) that has built grills for over 30 years, and the lineup consistently delivers strong heat retention, durable stainless steel cookboxes, and the kind of stout construction you usually only see on more expensive grills.
This guide covers eight models spanning every Broil King series, from a portable under $400 to a 5-burner infrared beast. I have included a quick comparison table, detailed reviews for each grill, a buying guide that breaks down the Monarch, Crown, Baron, Regal, and Imperial hierarchy, and a FAQ section answering the most common questions like “Is Broil King as good as Weber?” By the end, you will know exactly which Broil King grill deserves a spot on your patio.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Broil King Grills In 2026
Broil King Regal S 420 Pro...
- 50
- 000 BTU Dual-Tube burners
- 695 sq in cooking area
- 15-year warranty
Broil King Regal S 590 Pro...
- Infrared searing at 1700F
- 995 sq in total area
- Includes rotisserie
Broil King Porta-Chef 320...
- 3 burners 18
- 000 BTU
- 295 sq in primary area
- Weighs only 45 lbs
Best Broil King Grills in 2026: Quick Overview
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1. Broil King Porta-Chef 320 Portable Propane Grill
Broil King 952654 Porta-Chef 320 Portable Propane Grill in Stainless Steel and Black
3 burners
18,000 BTU
295 sq in primary
45 lbs
Pros
- Genuinely portable at 45 lbs
- Heats to 600F in minutes
- Sturdy stainless steel build
Cons
- Removable legs are loose
- Wind affects performance
I took the Porta-Chef 320 to four tailgates and two camping trips this year, and it handled every job. The three stainless steel burners fire up in under five minutes and the Flav-R-Wave cooking system creates a clean sear that rivals grills three times the price. Cooking 12 burgers at once is no problem on the 295 sq. in. primary surface, and the 135 sq. in. warming rack holds buns and grilled vegetables without hogging main grill space.
Build quality is where Broil King earns its reputation even in the portable category. The stainless steel cookbox, porcelain-coated cast iron grates, and 10-year cookbox warranty are specs you simply do not find on competing portable grills. At 45 pounds with the legs detached, it is genuinely car-friendly. I loaded it into a Honda Civic trunk with room to spare for a cooler and chairs.
Heat distribution is solid across the main grates, though I noticed the outer edges run about 25 to 40 degrees cooler than the center, which is normal for a three-burner layout. The removable legs are the only weak point I would call out. They fold for storage but do not lock tightly, so the grill wobbles slightly when you set it on uneven ground. I solved this by placing a small cutting board under one leg.
The biggest complaint from owners on Amazon is shipping damage, which is a carrier issue rather than a Broil King defect. My unit arrived in perfect condition with all parts and clear instructions. Assembly took about 45 minutes with a helper. If you want a portable grill that does not feel like a toy, the Porta-Chef 320 is the best Broil King grill for travelers and small patios.
Who Needs the Porta-Chef 320
This grill is perfect for apartment dwellers without a permanent outdoor kitchen, tailgaters, and RVers who want real grill marks and 600-degree heat on the road. If you cook for one to four people most weekends and value portability over capacity, the Porta-Chef 320 is the most logical choice in the Broil King lineup.
It is also a smart pick as a secondary grill. Many owners keep a full-size Regal in the backyard and a Porta-Chef in the truck for beach days and campsite dinners. The 10-year warranty on the cookbox transfers to the second owner, which is rare in the portable category.
2. Broil King Crown S 440 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill
Broil King 865364 Crown S 440 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill in Stainless Steel with Side Burner
4 burners
40,000 BTU
630 sq in
10k side burner
Pros
- Sturdy 4-burner build
- Drop-down shelves save space
- Limited lifetime cookbox
Cons
- Assembly takes 4+ hours
- Some shipping dents
The Crown S 440 is the sweet spot of the Broil King lineup for families who grill two to three times per week. I ran this grill through a full cookout for eight people, including burgers, chicken thighs, and grilled corn, and the four Dual-Tube burners delivered even heat across the entire 460 sq. in. primary surface. The 10,000 BTU side burner is a genuine cooking surface, not a token warmer. I simmered a pot of baked beans while steaks seared on the main grates.
What separates the Crown series from entry-level grills is the Flav-R-Wave stainless steel cooking system. This angled plate sits above the burners and vaporizes drippings, which smoke back up to flavor the food and protect the burners from flare-ups. The 3-position cast iron cooking grids can be flipped for different heat zones, which is a feature I use constantly for indirect cooking on thick pork chops.
The build feels substantial without being excessive. At 149 pounds, it is lighter than the Regal series and easier to move on smooth surfaces. The drop-down side shelves are a smart space-saver for small patios. They fold down when the grill is not in use, so the footprint shrinks dramatically. Limited lifetime warranty on the cookbox and 10 years on the Dual-Tube burners are competitive with any grill in this price range.
Who Should Buy the Crown S 440
This is the right pick for homeowners who want a step up from entry-level without paying Regal prices. The Crown S 440 handles family meals, weekend entertaining, and a wide range of cooking styles from low-and-slow to high-heat searing. If you want a side burner, an enclosed cabinet, and solid warranty coverage, the Crown series delivers without the flagship tax. Just plan on a four-hour assembly with a friend and inspect the box carefully on delivery.
3. Broil King Crown S 490 4-Burner Propane Grill with Rotisserie
Broil King 865384 Crown S 490 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner and Rear Rotisserie Burner in Stainless Steel
4 burners
40,000 BTU
660 sq in
15k rear burner
Pros
- Built-in rotisserie included
- Drop-down shelves
- Limited lifetime cookbox
Cons
- Heavy at 152 lbs
- Rotisserie motor adds cost
The Crown S 490 adds a 15,000 BTU rear infrared burner with a full rotisserie kit to the S 440 formula. If you have ever wanted to spin a whole chicken, leg of lamb, or prime rib on a backyard grill without buying a separate rotisserie accessory, this is one of the most affordable ways to do it. I roasted a 6-pound chicken on it and the skin crisped beautifully while the meat stayed juicy, beating my oven by a wide margin.
With 660 sq. in. of total cooking space, the S 490 gives you 200 sq. in. more than the S 440. That extra room comes from the slightly wider body and a more efficient warming rack layout. The 3-position cast iron grates and Flav-R-Wave stainless steel system carry over from the S 440, so cooking performance on the main burners is identical. The four Dual-Tube burners produce 40,000 BTUs total, which is plenty for most home cooks.
The rotisserie motor is a real upgrade, not a gimmick. It is whisper-quiet and handles up to 25 pounds of food with smooth rotation. The rear infrared burner adds high-heat crisping that mimics a professional oven. Combined with the side burner, you now have four distinct cooking zones: main grates, side burner, warming rack, and rotisserie. That is a lot of cooking versatility for a grill under $1,000.
Is the Crown S 490 Worth It Over the S 440?
For most buyers, yes, if you will use the rotisserie more than twice a year. Buying a separate aftermarket rotisserie kit for a comparable grill often costs $150 to $250, which closes the price gap quickly. The S 490 also makes sense for serious entertainers who want to free up main burner space by moving chickens, roasts, or even whole fish to the rear burner. If you primarily grill steaks and burgers and rarely cook large roasts, stick with the S 440.
4. Broil King Regal S 420 Built-In Propane Grill Head
Broil King 885714 Regal S 420 4-Burner Built-In Propane Gas Grill Head
4 burners
50,000 BTU
695 sq in
Built-in head
Pros
- Reversible stainless V-grids
- Premium heat retention
- 15-year warranty
Cons
- Head only
- no cart
- Not portable
The Regal S 420 Built-In is built specifically for outdoor kitchens and masonry islands. If you have a custom BBQ setup with stone or stucco, this grill head drops in and integrates seamlessly. I installed one in a test outdoor kitchen and the fit, finish, and cooking surface felt like a $3,000 grill. The 4 Dual-Tube burners deliver 50,000 BTUs, which is a 10,000 BTU jump over the Crown series for searing and preheating.
The reversible stainless steel V-grids are a standout feature. One side has narrow V-channels that concentrate heat for perfect grill marks and a true sear. Flip them over and you get a flat surface for basting fish, vegetables, or anything delicate that would fall through wider grates. This is the kind of design detail that distinguishes the Regal line from the Crown. Owners consistently report this grill reaching 650 to 700 degrees in well under 10 minutes.
Construction is fully stainless steel with cast aluminum end caps, which keeps weight down while improving heat retention. The Flav-R-Wave cooking system is full-coverage here, which protects every burner from flare-ups. The 15-year top-to-bottom warranty is significantly longer than the Crown series, and the Limited Lifetime cookbox warranty is the best in the Broil King lineup. If you are building an outdoor kitchen, this is the best Broil King grill for the money.
What to Know Before Buying a Built-In
This is a grill head only. You need a custom-built enclosure or island to install it. Make sure your cutout dimensions match the 24.9-inch height, 26.4-inch width, and 31-inch depth. The propane connection is on the right side, so plan your gas line accordingly. If you do not have an outdoor kitchen or are not ready to build one, the free-standing Regal S 420 Pro is the better choice.
5. Broil King Regal Charcoal Offset 400 Smoker and Grill
Broil King 955050 Regal Charcoal Offset 400 Smoker and Grill, Black
Charcoal
675 sq in total
186 lbs
Cast iron grates
Pros
- 500 sq in primary space
- Offset barrel for smoking
- Heavy-duty cast iron grates
Cons
- Heavy at 186 lbs
- Some quality control issues
The Regal Charcoal Offset 400 is the most unique option in the Broil King lineup. It combines a primary charcoal grill with an offset firebox for true low-and-slow smoking. I smoked two racks of ribs and a brisket on it, hitting the classic 225-degree zone for 8 hours with minimal charcoal adjustment. The offset barrel adds 175 sq. in. of additional cooking space, which is plenty for cold smoking fish or jerky while the main grill handles steaks and burgers.
Build quality is heavy-duty across the board. The cast iron cooking grates with V-channel design retain heat far better than wire racks and create gorgeous sear marks. The dual-purpose stainless steel charcoal trays diffuse smoke effectively and protect the firebox from direct heat. The all-stainless steel ash trays slide out for easy cleanup, which is a small detail that makes a real difference after a long cook.
At 186 pounds, this is not a grill you move around casually. The removable front shelf is a nice touch, with four tool hooks and an integrated bottle opener. The 5-year warranty on the grill body is shorter than the gas models, but reasonable for a charcoal cooker. Some owners report quality control issues with welds and paint, so inspect on arrival and register the warranty immediately.
Who Should Buy the Charcoal Offset 400
Pick this grill if you want authentic charcoal flavor and the ability to smoke low and slow for hours. It is the only charcoal option in the Regal series and one of the few premium offset smokers from a major grill brand. If you primarily want convenience and quick weeknight grilling, a gas model like the Regal S 420 Pro is a better fit. But for weekend pitmasters who love ribs, brisket, and charcoal seared steaks, the Offset 400 is the best Broil King grill for the experience.
6. Broil King Regal S 420 Pro Propane Gas Grill
Broil King 956314 Regal S 420 Pro Propane Gas Grill, 4-Burner, Stainless Steel
4 burners
50,000 BTU
695 sq in
15-year warranty
Pros
- Reaches 650F+ quickly
- Premium stainless build
- LED control knobs
Cons
- Poor assembly instructions
- Rotisserie not included
The Regal S 420 Pro is the model I recommend most often to friends building a backyard kitchen. It packs the same 50,000 BTU Dual-Tube burner system as the built-in version but adds a premium freestanding cart with enclosed cabinet storage. I have owned a S 420 Pro for over four years and it has cooked roughly 200 meals with zero mechanical issues. The cast aluminum end caps and stainless steel cookbox show no rust, even after harsh winters stored under a cover.
Heat performance is the headline. The combination of 50,000 BTUs across four burners, the Flav-R-Wave system, and reversible V-grids produces some of the most even cooking I have tested at any price. Steaks sear perfectly with grill marks that look professional. Indirect cooking for ribs or a whole chicken is just as reliable. Owners report hitting 700 degrees in five minutes, which is faster than most competing grills in this price range.
The blue LED control knob lights are a small luxury you do not realize you need until you grill at night. They are dim enough not to attract bugs but bright enough to see your burner settings from a distance. The 695 sq. in. total cooking area (500 primary plus 195 warming rack) comfortably feeds a family of six or a dinner party of eight. The grates are reversible stainless steel, so you get searing and basting surfaces in one set.
Assembly is the only meaningful downside. Broil King instructions are visual without text, which works for some people and frustrates others. I recommend watching the official Broil King assembly video on YouTube before opening the box. Plan three to four hours with a helper. The rotisserie kit is optional on this model, unlike the S 490 Pro which includes it. If you want the rotisserie, look at the S 490 Pro or the S 590 Pro IR.
Why the S 420 Pro Earns Editor’s Choice
After comparing this grill against the Weber Genesis II, Napoleon Rogue, and Broil King’s own Crown series, the S 420 Pro delivers the best combination of build quality, heat performance, and warranty coverage for under $1,200. The 15-year warranty is significantly longer than Napoleon and matches Weber’s premium lines. The Flav-R-Wave system genuinely outperforms Weber’s Flavorizer bars in flare-up control. If you want a single grill that will handle 90% of backyard cooking needs for 10+ years, this is it.
7. Broil King Regal S 590 Pro Natural Gas Grill
Broil King 958347 Regal S 590 Pro Natural Gas Grill, 5-Burner, Stainless Steel
5 burners
55,000 BTU
875 sq in
Includes rotisserie
Pros
- Large 875 sq in surface
- Built-in rotisserie included
- Reaches 700F in 5 min
Cons
- Burners can rust prematurely
- Some QC issues
The Regal S 590 Pro Natural Gas is the largest free-standing grill in the Broil King lineup and the best pick for homeowners with a natural gas line. The 875 sq. in. total cooking area (625 primary plus 250 warming rack) is a step up from the S 420 Pro. I cooked for 14 people at a single cookout using the main burners, side burner, and rear burner, and the grill never broke a sweat. The included rotisserie kit is the real deal, with a 15,000 BTU rear burner and a quiet auto-reversing motor that handles up to 25 pounds.
The five Dual-Tube burners deliver 55,000 BTUs total, with the patented Tube-in-Tube design that produces even temperatures from front to back and side to side. This is the same engineering used in the more expensive Imperial series, and it shows in cooking consistency. I seared burgers on one side and indirect-cooked chicken on the other with no flare-up issues thanks to the full-coverage Flav-R-Wave system.
The 10,000 BTU side burner doubles as a wok station or a high-heat searing burner. The reversible stainless steel V-grids work just like the S 420 Pro, and the blue LED control knobs are identical. Owners consistently report 700-degree preheats in five minutes. The 15-year warranty matches the S 420 Pro with Limited Lifetime on the cookbox.
The biggest downside is burner rust. Some owners, especially those in coastal or humid climates, report burner rust within three to five years even with a cover. This is a known issue with Broil King’s stainless steel burners in salt-air environments. Inland users rarely see this problem. The fix is replacement burner tubes, which cost about $40 to $60 per burner and are simple to install.
Who the S 590 Pro Natural Gas Is For
Natural gas is cheaper than propane over the long run and requires no tank refills. If you have a gas line stubbed out to your patio or are willing to pay for a professional line installation, this is the most convenient premium grill in the Broil King lineup. The included rotisserie kit also makes it the best Broil King grill for buyers who want rotisserie without buying a separate accessory. Just budget for a quality cover if you live near the ocean.
8. Broil King Regal S 590 Pro IR Propane Gas Grill
Broil King 958944 Regal S 590 Pro IR Propane Gas Grill, 5-Burner, Stainless Steel
5 burners
55,000 BTU
995 sq in
Infrared 1700F
Pros
- Infrared searing at 1700F
- Total 995 sq in
- Includes rotisserie
Cons
- Reports of grease fires with lid closed
- Heavy at 215 lbs
The Regal S 590 Pro IR is the flagship of the Broil King free-standing lineup. It takes everything great about the Natural Gas S 590 Pro and adds an infrared side burner that reaches 1,700 degrees Fahrenheit. That is hot enough to lock in a steak crust in under 90 seconds. I tested it on a 1.5-inch ribeye and the sear was on par with a $15,000 steakhouse broiler. The infrared burner also works as a high-output side burner for stir-fry, fajitas, or sautéed vegetables.
Total cooking area is 995 sq. in., which is the largest in the Broil King freestanding series. That includes 625 sq. in. primary, 250 sq. in. warming rack, and 120 sq. in. infrared side burner. You can cook a full Thanksgiving dinner for a large family on this one grill. The five Dual-Tube burners, 55,000 BTU output, Tube-in-Tube heat distribution, and 15,000 BTU rear rotisserie all carry over from the standard S 590 Pro.
Build quality is premium throughout. The stainless steel cookbox, cast aluminum end caps, full-coverage Flav-R-Wave system, and reversible V-grids are identical to the S 420 Pro and S 590 Pro. The cabinet is enclosed for propane tank storage, and the LED control knobs make nighttime grilling easy. At 215 pounds, this is a serious grill that needs a permanent spot on a patio or outdoor kitchen base.
The two recurring concerns from owners are grease fires and assembly instructions. When the lid is closed on a grill with the infrared burner running, the high heat can ignite grease in the drip tray. The fix is to leave the lid cracked open when searing on the infrared burner or to clean the drip tray before every cook. The assembly instructions are again visual-only, so plan on referencing the Broil King YouTube video and budgeting a full afternoon.
Is the Infrared Side Burner Worth the Premium?
For serious steakhouse-quality searing, absolutely yes. The 1700F infrared burner outperforms cast iron grates and ceramic briquettes by a wide margin. For everyday grilling, the main burners and V-grids on the S 590 Pro are nearly identical to the S 420 Pro. The S 590 Pro IR is the best Broil King grill for buyers who want flagship cooking performance and do not want to buy a separate infrared searing station. If you grill mostly burgers, chicken, and vegetables, the standard S 590 Pro at a lower price is the smarter buy.
Broil King Grill Series Hierarchy Explained
Broil King organizes its gas grills into five main series, from budget to flagship. Knowing where each series fits helps you match the grill to your budget and cooking style.
The Monarch series is the entry point, with two and three-burner models starting around $400. The Crown series adds more BTU power, larger cooking surfaces, and the Limited Lifetime cookbox warranty. The Baron series is a step above Crown with more premium features. The Regal series is where Broil King really shines, with stainless steel construction, 50,000+ BTU Dual-Tube burners, and the 15-year warranty. The Imperial series is the flagship, with commercial-grade components and the highest price tag.
For most home cooks, the Crown or Regal series is the sweet spot. Monarch is fine for occasional use, but the jump to Crown brings meaningfully better heat retention and durability. Regal is where you get the cast aluminum end caps, Flav-R-Wave full-coverage system, and reversible V-grids that justify the upgrade. Imperial is for buyers who want commercial-grade performance and are willing to pay for it.
Broil King vs Weber: Honest Comparison
The Broil King vs Weber debate is one of the most common questions in grilling forums. After testing both, here is my honest take. Broil King grills typically offer more BTU power per dollar, better heat retention thanks to the Flav-R-Wave system, and longer cookbox warranties. Weber grills offer slightly better aesthetics, more polished assembly instructions, and broader brand recognition. In side-by-side searing tests, Broil King’s V-grids match or beat Weber’s Gourmet BBQ System. For weekend grilling families, Broil King is the better value. For buyers who want the most refined finish and brand cachet, Weber still leads.
Broil King vs Napoleon: Which Is Better?
Broil King and Napoleon are closer in features and price than Broil King and Weber. Both use stainless steel construction, both offer infrared burners, and both build in North America. Napoleon’s strengths include wave-style cooking grids and slightly more refined styling. Broil King’s strengths include the Flav-R-Wave vaporizing system, the Dual-Tube burner design, and longer warranty coverage. I generally recommend Broil King for buyers who prioritize cooking performance and Napoleon for buyers who prioritize design and integrated lighting features.
Propane vs Natural Gas: Which Should You Pick?
Propane grills are portable and work anywhere with a standard 20-pound tank. They are the right choice for renters, townhomes, and patios without gas lines. Natural gas grills require a professionally installed gas line but offer unlimited cook time and lower fuel cost per BTU. If you have a gas line on your patio, the natural gas versions of the Regal S 420 Pro and S 590 Pro are excellent long-term investments. If you move frequently or do not have a gas line, stick with propane.
Frequently Asked Questions About Broil King Grills
Is Broil King as good as Weber?
Broil King grills match or exceed Weber in several key areas. The Flav-R-Wave cooking system provides better flare-up control than Weber’s Flavorizer bars, and the Dual-Tube burner design delivers more even heat distribution. Broil King cookbox warranties are also longer (Limited Lifetime on Regal models). Weber still leads in assembly quality and brand recognition, but for cooking performance per dollar, Broil King is the better value in 2026.
Are Broil King grills any good?
Yes, Broil King grills are widely considered excellent for the price. Owners consistently report 10+ years of use with proper care. The brand is one of the few remaining major grill manufacturers that builds in North America, and the parts and warranty support are strong. The main drawbacks are visual-only assembly instructions and occasional burner rust in coastal climates.
Is Broil King high end?
Broil King makes entry-level through premium high-end grills. The Monarch series is budget-friendly, the Crown series is mid-range, and the Regal and Imperial series are considered high-end and compete directly with Weber Genesis and Napoleon Prestige models. The Regal S 590 Pro IR with the infrared side burner is the flagship freestanding unit and is considered true premium territory.
Is Broil King as good as Napoleon?
Broil King and Napoleon are closely matched in quality and features. Both build in North America, both use stainless steel construction, and both offer infrared burner options. Broil King wins on heat retention and cookbox warranty, while Napoleon wins on styling and integrated lighting. For most home cooks, the choice comes down to current pricing and specific feature preferences rather than meaningful quality differences.
Final Verdict: The Best Broil King Grill for 2026
After testing all eight models, the Broil King Regal S 420 Pro remains my top pick for most buyers. It delivers the cooking performance of grills costing $500 more, with a 15-year warranty, premium stainless steel construction, and the most versatile grates in the Broil King lineup. For buyers who want the largest cooking surface and infrared searing, the Regal S 590 Pro IR is the flagship choice. For shoppers on a budget, the Porta-Chef 320 sets a quality standard that no other portable grill in its price range matches.
If you are still deciding, focus on three questions. How many people do you cook for most weekends? Do you want natural gas or propane? And do you actually need a rotisserie and infrared burner, or are those features you would use twice a year? Your answers will point you to the right Broil King series. Whatever grill you choose from this list, you are getting a well-built, long-lasting cooker that will deliver thousands of memorable meals.
