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Which Grill Should You Choose in 2026 for Your Cooking Style?
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Best Grills 2026

Choosing a grill depends on how you cook, the space available, and the results you’re looking for. A gas grill is best for quick, consistent cooking, charcoal delivers a more pronounced smoky flavour, while a compact or electric model is better suited for smaller spaces. For larger gatherings, a grill with a wider cooking surface and multiple burners makes it easier to cook for more people. Discover the grill that truly fits your cooking style.

A Grill for Every Style

Whether you like to improvise or cook for a large crowd, there is a grill that fits your reality. Find the profile that reflects the way you cook and discover our JC Perreault specialists’ top picks for meals worthy of the moments you share.

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  1. A grill for quick and efficient weeknight cooking
  2. A grill for large gatherings and weekends
  3. A grill for charcoal flavour and live-fire cooking
  4. A connected grill with Wi-Fi and integrated probes
  5. A grill for a balcony or small patio
  6. A grill with true prep and storage space
  7. A built-in grill designed for permanent installation
  8. 5 Criteria for Choosing a Grill
  9. Napoleon: Our 2026 Favourite Grill Brand
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A woman cooks vegetables on a Napoleon Prestige 500 gas grill with infrared side and rear burners.
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A grill for quick and efficient weeknight cooking

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A gas grill is ideal if you cook frequently during the week and want fast heat-up times with consistent temperature control.

Even on weeknights, you enjoy making the most of the season by cooking outdoors. You need a responsive grill that heats up quickly and maintains steady temperatures without constant adjustments. You also want the flexibility to explore different cooking techniques, with enough space to cook and rest dishes without feeling limited.

For this style of cooking, our JC Perreault specialists particularly appreciate the Napoleon Prestige® 500 propane grill. Turn it on and the burners ignite instantly with the JETFIRE system. The infrared side burner is ideal for quickly searing a beautiful cut of meat. At the back, the infrared rear burner and rotisserie let you take on slower weekend cooks—whole chicken, pork roast—while spending time with your guests instead of standing over the grill. The control knobs glow red when the gas is on, offering added peace of mind.

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Napoleon Prestige 500 gas grill with infrared side and rear burners
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A man grills food on his Napoleon Prestige PRO 825 grill with a side burner and infrared burners.
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A grill for large gatherings and weekends

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A large grill with multiple cooking zones is recommended if you often host and need to cook multiple dishes at the same time.

When you host outdoors, there are often more people than expected, and the kids want their hot dogs right away. You do not want to keep everyone waiting because the cooking surface is full. You need to run multiple cooking zones at once without crowding. Keep burgers going while steaks rest, add vegetables without shifting everything around, serve one round while the next is already underway. You need space—but more importantly, organization.

With a model like the Napoleon Prestige PRO™ 825 propane grill, the pace changes. Two lids let you separate cooking zones: a large primary surface for volume, plus a secondary infrared zone that reaches high heat quickly for on-demand searing. You can roast a whole chicken on the rotisserie while dozens of burgers cook up front without losing temperature. If you feel like smoking ribs or a pork shoulder, the integrated smoker tray and burner let you do it directly, without adding another appliance. The side burner keeps sauces warm or lets you prepare side dishes outdoors.

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Napoleon Prestige PRO 825 gas grill with side burner and infrared burners
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A person takes grilled steaks out of their Kamado Joe grill.
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A grill for charcoal flavour and live-fire cooking

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A charcoal or Kamado-style grill is ideal if you’re looking for smoky flavour and enjoy managing the fire.

For you, grilling starts with charcoal flavour, smoke wrapping around the meat, and a dark crust forming slowly. You enjoy the kind of cooking that turns a pork shoulder tender and juicy. But you also want to drop a thick steak on the grate and hear the unmistakable sizzle of an intense sear. Above all, you are after authentic live-fire flavour.

The Kamado Joe Classic II™ delivers exactly that. Its thick ceramic body retains heat with impressive stability, making low-and-slow cooking easier without constant monitoring. By adjusting the air vents, you maintain steady temperatures for hours to smoke ribs or salmon.

When you want to sear, simply open the vents further—the heat rises quickly and intensely. In direct cooking mode, close to the charcoal, you achieve a bold crust in just minutes. The two-level Divide & Conquer® system allows food to be placed at different heights for varied cooking zones at the same time. Smoke ribs on one side while finishing grilled vegetables on the other. Here, the fire is part of the experience.

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Kamado Joe Classic Joe II 18-inch ceramic grill
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A patio with a Napoleon Phantom Prestige 500 gas grill in a matte black finish.
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A connected grill with Wi-Fi and integrated probes

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A connected grill is recommended if you want to monitor your cooking remotely and avoid constantly checking the grill.

You want to start cooking and return to the table without staying beside the grill. Talk with guests, prepare sides indoors, or simply enjoy the moment while knowing exactly what is happening under the lid. You want to avoid lifting the lid unnecessarily and losing heat.

Our JC Perreault specialists value the freedom offered by the Napoleon Phantom Prestige® 500 Connected propane grill. With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, you monitor both grill and food temperatures directly from your phone in real time. Integrated probes track internal temperatures without opening the lid, maintaining stable heat and preventing fluctuations. You receive alerts when target temperatures are reached—ideal for brisket, roasts, or whole chickens cooked indirectly. You stay in control without hovering over the cooking surface.

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https://www.jcperreault.com/en/p/p500vxrsibpk-phm-phantom-prestiger-500-connected-propane-gas-grill-with-infrared-side-and-rear-burner-matte-black/725305
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Napoleon Phantom Prestige 500 gas grill Matte Black
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A couple cooks on their terrace using the Napoleon Rogue 425 gas grill with a black finish.
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A grill for a balcony or small patio

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A compact grill is ideal if you cook on a balcony or small patio and need to make the most of your space without sacrificing cooking performance.


You may not have a large yard, but you still want real grilled flavour. On a balcony or compact patio, every inch counts. You are looking for a compact format that still allows you to host two or three guests comfortably.

In this case, our specialists often recommend the Napoleon Rogue® 425 grill. Its compact design and foldable side shelves make circulation easier when space is limited. Open, cook, fold down, and reclaim your space.

Three burners provide enough flexibility to create cooking zones: high heat for searing, lower heat for finishing or keeping food warm. Porcelain-coated cast iron grates retain heat well and create strong sear marks. The JETFIRE™ ignition system lights instantly, and the integrated thermometer lets you adjust temperatures without constantly opening the lid.

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Napoleon Rogue 425 3-burner gas grill black
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Friends enjoy a meal on their patio, equipped with the Napoleon Oasis outdoor kitchen and its built-in grill.
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A grill with true prep and storage space

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An outdoor kitchen with prep space is recommended if you cook outdoors frequently and want a more organized setup.

You appreciate when everything has its place. Prep, cut, season, cook, and serve without running between the house and the patio. You are not just looking for a grill—you are looking for a complete outdoor cooking setup.

The Napoleon OASIS 301 outdoor kitchen with 32-inch 700 Series built-in grill frequently comes up in our in-store discussions. With 785 sq. in. of cooking space, you can spread out steaks, vegetables, and skewers without stacking. Four stainless steel burners heat quickly with JETFIRE™, allowing you to create precise heat zones. The infrared rear burner supports full rotisserie cooking while the rest of the meal progresses.

What truly transforms your summer is the surrounding organization. The counter becomes a real workspace. Drawers keep tools in place. Matte black galvanized steel modules are designed to withstand Quebec’s humidity, wind, and temperature swings. Your backyard—and your evenings—take on a new dimension.

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Napoleon OASIS 301 32-inch 700 Series built-in grill in a matte black island with storage spaces
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The DCS Series 9 36-inch built-in gas grill with a stainless steel finish.
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A built-in grill designed for permanent installation

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A built-in grill is ideal if you’re planning a permanent outdoor kitchen and want a unit designed to last for many years.

You want a true outdoor kitchen with fixed counters and permanent gas connection. You need a grill built to remain in place for years and withstand Canadian weather.

Our specialists frequently recommend the DCS Series 9 built-in 36- or 48-inch propane grill for these projects. Its 25,000 BTU U-shaped burners per zone allow precise heat control: maintain 300°F for gentle cooking, then exceed 1,000°F for powerful searing. The dedicated infrared zone delivers intense direct heat for a marked crust in minutes.

The infrared rotisserie burner handles large cuts—turkey, roast, pork loin—without temperature collapse when opening the lid. An integrated charcoal tray adds versatility, allowing wood chips for authentic smoke flavour without adding another appliance. Move seamlessly between precise gas control and charcoal flavour.

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DCS Series 9 36-inch built-in gas grill with infrared cooking burner
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The 5 Criteria for Choosing a Grill

The key criteria for choosing a grill help you select a model that matches how you use it, your space, and how often you cook.

Everything You Need to Know About Burners

The number of burners directly determines cooking capacity and how many people you can serve at the same time.

First, note that the number of burners is a good indicator of your grill’s size. For small meals, a 2 or 3-burner model is perfect for cooking for 4 to 6 people. If you regularly host family and friends, choose a grill with 4 or 5 burners, ideal for 8 to 12 guests. For grills with more than 6 burners, you’ll enjoy a very generous cooking space.

Some grills also feature an infrared side burner, designed for searing meats at very high temperatures. It can reach up to 1,800 °F and allows for rapid and intense cooking, ideal for marking the meat and achieving a flavorful crust. Side burners are also handy for preparing side dishes in a pan without taking your eyes off the grill.

The Basin and Lid: Key Elements for a Well-Designed Grill

A well-built cookbox and lid help retain heat and ensure more consistent cooking.


The basin plays an essential role in the performance of your grill, as it retains heat. Models made of stainless steel, enameled cast iron, or steel are the most common, but it’s important to choose a basin with at least 4 mm of thickness to avoid deformation under high temperatures. As for the lid, models made of stainless steel or ceramic with a hermetic seal ensure excellent heat retention.

Grill Grates: Steel or Cast Iron?

The type of grates affects both cooking performance and maintenance, including heat retention and ease of cleaning.

Stainless steel and porcelain-coated cast iron grates resist rust and are easy to maintain. Porcelain-coated cast iron should be cleaned cold; stainless steel can be brushed while hot.

Cast iron grates naturally rust over time, requiring regular cleaning and the application of food-grade oil to slow down oxidation.

Understanding BTU on a Grill

BTU ratings alone do not determine a grill’s performance, as overall build quality and heat retention play a more important role.

When you choose a gas grill, you’ll often see the BTU (British Thermal Units) number highlighted. However, this indicator does not always reflect the actual performance of the unit. Models on the market typically range from 25,000 to 75,000 BTU, a measure of the heat produced per hour when all burners are on. Therefore, the more burners a grill has, the higher its total BTU.

The key is to choose a grill with a well-designed basin and lid that provides good insulation. Well-retained heat helps reach your desired temperature quickly while optimizing your gas consumption.

Grill Accessories: Enhance Your Experience!

Some accessories help simplify cooking, improve temperature control, and expand the range of meals you can prepare.

  • Additional Grilling Rack: The tiered grilling rack lets you keep meats and vegetables warm, cook delicate foods gently, and reheat burger buns.
  • Rotisserie: Ideal for cooking poultry and large cuts of meat. Some models feature an infrared burner at the back, ensuring even and faster cooking.
  • Integrated Thermometer: A thermometer in the lid lets you monitor temperature without opening your grill. However, for cooking meat, we recommend a probe thermometer. Some grills come with built-in probes and even Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to monitor cooking from your phone.
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A man adjusts a burner on his 32-inch Napoleon Series 700 built-in gas grill equipped with a rear infrared burner.
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Napoleon: Our 2026 Favourite Grill Brand

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Napoleon consistently ranks among our most recommended grills. It is a Canadian company with decades of experience, and several series, including Prestige and Prestige PRO, are designed and manufactured in Canada.

Napoleon uses 430 and 304 stainless steel. Grade 304 provides superior corrosion resistance, while 430 ensures durability for exterior panels. The result is reduced rust and long-term structural integrity.

Inside, tubular burners—often made from 304 stainless steel—are designed for even heat distribution. Fewer cold spots mean greater precision when switching between searing and gentler cooking.

Porcelain-coated cast iron or WAVE stainless steel grates retain heat effectively, create defined sear marks, and prevent smaller foods from falling through the grill.

Their responsive after-sales service and accessible replacement parts reinforce long-term confidence.

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Discover our collection of Napoleon grills
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Grills 2026 FAQ

What is the difference between a propane and natural gas grill?

Propane uses a removable tank you replace when empty, making it suitable for mobility or homes without natural gas lines. Natural gas connects to a permanent household line, eliminating refills but requiring prior installation.

How many burners do you need for comfortable cooking?

For 2 to 4 people, 2 or 3 burners are sufficient. For 4 to 6 people or frequent hosting, 3 to 4 burners create separate heat zones. For more than 6 guests, 4 or more burners allow simultaneous cooking without rotating batches.

What cooking surface is ideal?

350–450 sq. in. suits daily use for couples or small families. 450–600 sq. in. offers added comfort for entertaining. Over 600 sq. in. suits large gatherings.

What is an infrared burner used for?

An infrared burner reaches very high temperatures quickly—often around 800°F—ideal for searing steak or seafood while keeping interiors tender.

Is an infrared burner necessary?

It is useful for rare steaks with strong caramelization, high-volume hosting, or thick cuts. For occasional grilling, a standard grill remains sufficient.

Can you leave a grill outside year-round?

Stainless steel or cast aluminum firebox grills can remain outdoors year-round, even in Quebec winters, if properly covered. Clean grates and burners before winter to reduce oxidation.

Which grill should you choose for a balcony in Quebec?

An electric grill or a compact gas grill is best suited for a balcony in Quebec, depending on your building’s regulations. Electric models are especially suitable in restricted environments since they do not produce an open flame. A compact gas grill with 3 burners allows you to create two to three distinct cooking zones for meat, vegetables, and side dishes at the same time. Choose a model with foldable side shelves to help save space when not in use.

What are rear and side burners for?

The rear burner is designed for rotisserie cooking, heating rotating meat evenly. The side burner acts as an additional cooking surface for sauces or sides when preparing full meals outdoors.

Complete your BBQ space with outdoor furniture

Discover our selection of outdoor furniture to create a welcoming space designed for entertaining and enjoying the season to the fullest.

Explore outdoor furniture