Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your First Built-In Grill
Everything you need to know about BTUs, cooking area, and features that matter for your outdoor kitchen.
Choosing your first built-in grill is one of the most important decisions you'll make when designing an outdoor kitchen. Unlike freestanding grills, built-ins are a permanent investment that shape the entire layout and function of your space. This guide walks you through the core specs, features, and trade-offs so you can buy with confidence.
Start with Size
The single biggest decision is how wide your grill should be. Grill width is measured by the cooking surface, not the overall unit. Here's how to match size to use:
- 30-32 inches — Couples or small families. Cooks 12-18 burgers at a time.
- 36-38 inches — The sweet spot for most households. 20-25 burgers at a time, room for a rotisserie.
- 42+ inches — Entertainers, frequent guests. Handles a whole brisket, multiple proteins at once.
BTUs Are Only Half the Story
BTU ratings get a lot of hype, but raw power matters less than how evenly that heat is distributed. A 60,000 BTU grill with poor heat distribution will frustrate you more than a well-engineered 45,000 BTU unit. Look for cast stainless steel burners, ceramic radiants, and multiple independently-controlled zones.
Construction Quality
For a built-in that's exposed to weather year-round, construction is everything. Look for:
- 304-grade stainless steel throughout (not just the exterior)
- Seamless welded construction rather than spot welds
- Double-walled hood for heat retention
- Cast stainless burners with a lifetime warranty
Features Worth Paying For
Some premium features are worth the upgrade; others are marketing. In our experience, the features that genuinely improve cooking are: rear infrared burner (for rotisserie), sear zone (for steaks), interior halogen lights (for night cooking), and a warming rack with proper spacing.
Budget Guide
Built-in grills range widely. A solid entry-level built-in starts around $1,299. Mid-range premium grills from brands like Bull, Napoleon, and Lion run $2,000-$4,000. At the top end, Coyote, Summerset, and Hestan deliver professional-grade construction for $4,500-$8,000+.
Need help matching a grill to your space? Contact our outdoor kitchen experts for a free design consultation.