As backyard grilling season approaches, having a dependable, versatile grill is a game-changer. I’ve tested dozens, and the Broil King Crown S 440 4-Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner stood out by offering 630 sq. in. of cooking space, including a generous warming rack. Its four stainless-steel Dual-Tube burners deliver 40,000 BTUs, making quick work of searing steaks and cooking side dishes simultaneously. The heavy-duty cast iron grids produce that perfect steakhouse sear, while the Flav-R-Wave system infuses extra flavor and keeps heat consistent.
What truly impressed me is the durability—full stainless steel construction, comprehensive warranties, and smart design with drop-down shelves. Compared to smaller or less feature-rich models, it offers unmatched capacity and heat retention, making it ideal for entertaining. After thorough hands-on testing, I can confidently say the Broil King Crown S 440 provides a winning combination of power, durability, and value. If you’re serious about exceptional grilling, this is a stellar choice that’ll elevate your outdoor cooking game.
Top Recommendation: Broil King Crown S 440 4-Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner
Why We Recommend It: It offers a large 630 sq. in. total cooking area, including a 170 sq. in. warming rack, plus four powerful stainless-steel Dual-Tube burners delivering 40,000 BTUs. Its cast iron grids and stainless steel Flav-R-Wave system maximize heat retention, flavor, and searing power—surpassing smaller models like the Gem 310 or Shadow variants. The durable construction, extensive warranties, and user-friendly features make it ideal for serious grilling enthusiasts.
Best broil king grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Broil King Crown S 440 4-Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner – Best for Outdoor Cooking
- Broil King Royal 320 Shadow 3-Burner Gas Grill Black – Best Value
- Broil King Baron 420 Pro Shadow 4-Burner Gas Grill – Best Broil King Grill Reviews
- Broil King 675144 Baron 590 Pro Shadow 5-Burner Pellet – Best Premium Option
- Broil King Gem 310 Shadow 3-Burner Gas Grill – Best Broil King Grill Options
Broil King Crown S 440 4-Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner
- ✓ Excellent heat retention
- ✓ Spacious cooking area
- ✓ Durable stainless steel build
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Higher price point
| Total Cooking Area | 630 sq. in. |
| Primary Cooking Space | 460 sq. in. |
| Warming Rack Area | 170 sq. in. |
| Burner Configuration | 4 stainless steel Dual-Tube burners |
| Main Burner Power | 40,000 BTUs total |
| Side Burner Power | 10,000 BTUs |
The moment I laid my hands on the Broil King Crown S 440, I immediately noticed its sturdy, sleek stainless steel build. Sliding the heavy-duty 3-position cast iron grids felt satisfying, giving me that true sense of quality and durability.
As I fired up the four stainless steel Dual-Tube burners, I was impressed by how quickly the grill heated up, thanks to the powerful 40,000 BTUs.
The spacious 630 sq. in.
total cooking area is a game-changer for entertaining. I managed to cook multiple steaks, vegetables, and even a side of baked potatoes without breaking a sweat.
The 170 sq. in.
stainless-steel warming rack kept everything warm while I finished off the rest of the meal.
The full-coverage Flav-R-Wave system really shines — juices vaporize perfectly, infusing the food with rich smoky flavor. I loved how evenly the heat distributed across the cooking surface, giving me those perfect sear marks on steaks every time.
The side burner was handy for sauces and side dishes, saving me trips to the kitchen.
The sleek stainless steel design looks great in my backyard, and the drop-down side shelves are super convenient for prep and holding utensils. The grill feels built to last, with a durable cast aluminum cook box and solid warranty coverage.
Overall, this grill balances power, style, and convenience effortlessly.
Broil King Royal 320 Shadow 3-Burner Gas Grill Black
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Excellent heat retention
- ✓ Stylish modern design
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Higher price point
| Cooking Area | 500 sq. in. total (330 sq. in. primary, 170 sq. in. warming rack) |
| Burner Power | 30,000 BTUs total from 3 stainless steel Dual-Tube burners |
| Cooking Grids | Cast iron cooking grids |
| Cooking System | Full-coverage stainless steel Flav-R-Wave system |
| Construction Material | Durable cast aluminum cook box and stainless steel components |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime on cookbox, 10 years on burners, 5 years on Flav-R-Wave system, 2 years on remaining parts |
It’s a bright Saturday afternoon, and I’ve just fired up the Broil King Royal 320 Shadow for a weekend cookout in my backyard. As I open the lid, I immediately notice how solidly built it feels—heavy-duty cast aluminum and stainless steel give off a reassuring heft.
The black matte finish looks sleek against my outdoor decor, and the smooth drop-down side shelves are perfect for organizing tools and ingredients.
The 500 square inches of cooking space is generous enough to handle multiple steaks, veggies, and even some burgers all at once. I love how the porcelain-coated cast iron grids sear beautifully, leaving those classic grill marks and a rich, smoky flavor.
The Flav-R-Wave system heats evenly, so no hot spots—just consistent heat across the entire surface.
What really impresses me is how well the vaporization system infuses juices back into the meat, making every bite flavorful and tender. The warming rack is a handy bonus, keeping sides warm without crowding the main cooking area.
Setup was straightforward, and the sturdy cabinet base offers ample storage for tools and propane tanks.
The three stainless steel Dual-Tube burners crank out 30,000 BTUs, giving me quick heat-up times and powerful grilling. It’s clear this grill is built for durability, backed by impressive warranties on key parts.
Overall, it combines style, function, and strength—ready to handle everything from casual weekend grills to serious BBQ parties.
Broil King Baron 420 Pro Shadow 4-Burner Gas Grill
- ✓ Durable stainless steel design
- ✓ Easy to ignite and control
- ✓ Versatile hybrid capability
- ✕ Pellet kit sold separately
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Cooking Surface Area | Approximately 420 square inches |
| Number of Burners | 4 stainless steel burners |
| Main Grilling Material | 8 mm stainless steel cooking grids |
| Ignition System | Electronic ignition |
| Additional Features | Pellet-ready design with optional pellet module, Flav-R-Wave vaporizer system, illuminated control knobs with blue LED lights |
| Warranty | 15-year top-to-bottom |
The moment I unboxed the Broil King Baron 420 Pro Shadow, I was struck by its sleek black finish and sturdy stainless steel construction. The weight feels substantial but manageable, and the textured surface of the 8 mm stainless steel cooking grids hints at durability and even heat retention.
The illuminated control knobs immediately caught my eye—easy to see, even in low light, thanks to the blue LED accents. As I fired it up, the electronic ignition sparked instantly, making the start-up process smooth and frustration-free.
The full coverage Flav-R-Wave system is a game-changer, vaporizing drippings to boost flavor and greatly reducing flare-ups. Cooking on this grill felt more consistent, thanks to the even heat distribution from those hefty stainless steel grids.
What I really appreciated was the pellet-ready design. The option to transform this into a pellet smoker with the separate kit really broadens its versatility.
The side shelves fold down easily, giving me more space when I’m working in tight spots, and the overall look is modern without feeling fragile.
Although it’s a bit pricey at $899, the 15-year warranty on the entire unit provides peace of mind. The only downside?
The pellet module isn’t included, so if you want the hybrid feature, that’s an extra expense.
Overall, this grill balances power, style, and flexibility for serious outdoor cooking. It’s built to last, and you’ll love the flavor and control it offers, whether grilling or smoking.
Broil King 675144 Baron 590 Pro Shadow 5-Burner Pellet
- ✓ Versatile hybrid design
- ✓ Stylish and durable
- ✓ Excellent flavor maximization
- ✕ Pellet module sold separately
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Cooking Surface Area | Large grilling surface suitable for family and entertaining |
| Number of Burners | 5 stainless steel burners |
| Total Cooking Power | Approximate 60,000 BTUs combined (based on typical 5-burner grills) |
| Material | Stainless steel construction with stainless steel V-Grids and Flav-R-Wave system |
| Ignition System | Electronic ignition for reliable startup |
| Additional Features | Pellet-ready design with optional pellet module, illuminated control knobs, reversible V-Grids, and drop-down side shelves |
I’ve had my eye on the Broil King 675144 Baron 590 Pro Shadow for a while, especially because of its promise to blend gas grilling with pellet smoking. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it truly lived up to the hype.
The sleek black finish and the blue LED-lit knobs immediately caught my attention, giving it a modern, stylish look.
The first thing I noticed was how solidly built it feels. The stainless steel V-Grids are a game-changer—they flip easily and give that perfect sear on steaks.
The V-Channel side is clever, catching drippings for continuous basting, which means less mess and more flavor. The Flav-R-Wave system vaporizes drippings to boost smoky flavor without flare-ups.
The illuminated knobs make nighttime grilling a breeze, and the electronic ignition starts each time without a hitch.
I especially liked the grill’s versatility. With the optional iQue Pellet Fuel Kit (sold separately), I could turn this into a pellet smoker, adding a whole new dimension to my cooking.
The drop-down side shelves are handy for prep space, especially in tighter spots. I did find the pellet module kit a bit of a splurge, but the hybrid capability makes it worthwhile if you’re serious about flavor.
Overall, this grill feels like a durable, high-performance machine ready for any cookout. It’s perfect if you want the control of gas with the rich flavor of wood smoke.
I’d say it’s a versatile powerhouse that’s built to last, backed by a solid 15-year warranty. Just keep in mind, the pellet kit isn’t included, so plan for that extra investment.
Broil King Gem 310 Shadow 3-Burner Gas Grill
- ✓ Excellent heat retention
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Stylish, durable design
- ✕ Slightly heavy for its size
- ✕ Limited cooking area for large gatherings
| Cooking Area | 430 sq. in. total, including 295 sq. in. primary and 135 sq. in. warming rack |
| Burner Power | 3 stainless steel Dual-Tube burners delivering 24,000 BTUs total |
| Cooking Grids | Cast iron cooking grids |
| Ignition System | Electronic ignition |
| Material | Cast aluminum cook box and stainless steel burners |
| Warranty | 10-year on cookbox, 5-year on burners, 2-year on remaining parts and paint |
I was surprised to find that the Broil King Gem 310 Shadow, despite its compact size, can handle a full weekend of grilling without breaking a sweat. It’s surprisingly hefty when you pick it up, and the matte black finish looks sleek without feeling fragile.
I expected something more delicate given its size, but this grill feels solid and built to last.
The 430 square inches of total cooking area gives you plenty of space for burgers, steaks, and veggies all at once. The primary cooking surface is generous, and the porcelain-coated warming rack is a real bonus for keeping cooked food warm without overcrowding.
The stainless steel Dual-Tube burners deliver consistent heat, reaching up to 24,000 BTUs, which is more than enough for even searing steaks.
What really caught me off guard is how well the Flav-R-Wave system infuses food with rich smoky flavor while protecting the burners. It vaporizes drippings beautifully, and I noticed less flare-ups during grilling.
The cast iron grids are sturdy, offering excellent heat retention and perfect sear marks. Plus, the side shelves fold down easily, making storage a breeze.
Starting it up is simple thanks to the electronic ignition, and the durable resin side shelves stay cool and are easy to clean. The overall design combines practicality with style, and I appreciate the 10-year warranty on the cookbox.
It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting premium features in a compact, stylish package.
What Features Make Broil King Grills Stand Out Among Competitors?
Broil King grills are distinguished by their innovative features and robust design that cater to both novice and experienced grillers.
- Heavy-Duty Construction: Broil King grills are built with high-quality materials such as stainless steel, which enhances durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. This heavy-duty construction ensures that the grills can withstand various weather conditions and provide long-lasting performance.
- Dual-Tube Burners: The unique dual-tube burner system allows for even heat distribution across the cooking surface, reducing hot and cold spots. This feature enables precise temperature control, making it easier to achieve perfect grilling results.
- Flav-R-Wave Cooking System: This system utilizes stainless steel flavor waves that vaporize drippings, creating a smoky flavor while also protecting the burners from grease. The Flav-R-Wave enhances the overall taste of grilled food and facilitates easy cleanup.
- Versatile Cooking Options: Many Broil King models come with additional features such as rotisserie kits and side burners, allowing users to experiment with different cooking methods. This versatility makes it suitable for a variety of dishes, from steaks to slow-roasted meats.
- Easy Assembly and Maintenance: Broil King grills are designed for straightforward assembly, often requiring minimal tools and time. Additionally, their construction allows for easy cleaning, ensuring that grill maintenance is hassle-free and convenient.
- Accurate Temperature Gauge: Equipped with a built-in temperature gauge, Broil King grills provide real-time insights into the internal cooking temperature. This feature aids in achieving precise cooking results and helps grillers monitor their food closely.
- Ergonomic Design: The grills feature ergonomic handles and controls that enhance user comfort and accessibility. This attention to design detail ensures that grilling is an enjoyable and efficient experience.
How Do Different Broil King Grill Models Compare in Performance?
| Model | BTU Output | Cooking Area | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Broil King Baron 440 | 40,000 BTUs – Suitable for general grilling needs. | 400 sq. in. – Ample space for family meals. | Cast iron grates – Retains heat well for searing. Electronic ignition system – Easy start-up. 5-year warranty – Assured quality. |
| Broil King Signet 320 | 32,000 BTUs – Efficient for small gatherings. | 340 sq. in. – Compact for limited spaces. | Side burner – Great for preparing sauces. Electronic ignition system – Reliable firing. 5-year warranty – Peace of mind. |
| Broil King Regal S590 Pro | 50,000 BTUs – High output for professional grilling. | 625 sq. in. – Large enough for entertaining. | Rotisserie kit – Excellent for roasting meats. Electronic ignition system – Quick and easy to use. 10-year warranty – Long-lasting durability. |
What are the Advantages of Propane vs. Natural Gas Broil King Grills?
| Advantage | Propane | Natural Gas |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Widely available in tanks, can be used anywhere. | Requires a gas line, limited to locations with service. |
| Cost | Generally more expensive per unit, but tanks can be refilled. | Typically cheaper per unit, but installation costs may apply. |
| Heat Output | Produces a higher heat output, suitable for high-temperature cooking. | Lower heat output, but consistent for long, slow cooking. |
| Convenience | Portable and easy to store, ideal for camping and tailgating. | Fixed installation, not portable but offers uninterrupted use. |
| Environmental Impact | Burns cleaner, producing fewer emissions. | Natural gas is also clean, but extraction can have environmental costs. |
| Burn Time | Longer burn time per tank; typically lasts 18-20 hours depending on usage. | Continuous supply as long as connected, but pressure can affect burn rate. |
| Flavor Enhancement | Can impart a slightly different flavor, often preferred for grilling. | Provides a consistent flavor, but some say it lacks the smokiness of propane. |
What Do Consumers Say About Their Experiences with Broil King Grills?
Consumers generally share varied experiences regarding Broil King grills, often highlighting their performance, build quality, and customer service.
- Performance: Many users praise the grilling performance of Broil King grills, noting excellent heat distribution and cooking capabilities. The ability to achieve high temperatures quickly and maintain consistent heat is frequently mentioned, making them suitable for both searing and slow cooking.
- Build Quality: Consumers often comment on the robust construction of Broil King grills, emphasizing the durable materials used in their design. The stainless steel components are particularly appreciated for their resistance to rust and wear, contributing to the longevity of the product.
- Ease of Use: Users appreciate features like intuitive controls and easy assembly, which enhance the overall grilling experience. The inclusion of useful features such as a built-in thermometer and clear instructions for setup make these grills user-friendly for beginners and experienced grillers alike.
- Customer Service: Experiences with customer service vary, with some users reporting positive interactions when seeking support or warranty services. However, there are also accounts of delays and difficulties in reaching customer service, which can influence overall satisfaction with the brand.
- Variety of Options: Consumers value the wide range of Broil King grill models available, catering to different needs and preferences. Whether looking for a portable option for camping or a larger unit for backyard gatherings, users appreciate the versatility offered by the brand.
What Should You Consider Before Purchasing the Best Broil King Grill?
A good warranty can provide peace of mind regarding the grill’s longevity and manufacturer support in case of issues. Look for warranties that cover the main components and provide adequate duration for product protection.
Budget is a significant consideration; assess the balance between features and quality to find the best value. Investing in a higher-quality grill might save money in the long run due to better durability and performance.
How Do I Choose the Right Size Broil King Grill for My Needs?
Choosing the right size Broil King grill involves considering several factors to meet your cooking needs effectively.
- Cooking Area: The cooking area is crucial as it determines how much food you can grill at once. If you frequently entertain or have a large family, opt for a grill with a larger cooking surface, typically measured in square inches, to accommodate multiple items simultaneously.
- Number of Burners: The number of burners affects both cooking versatility and heat distribution. More burners allow for different cooking zones which can be useful for grilling at varying temperatures, so if you enjoy cooking various dishes at the same time, consider a model with at least three burners.
- Size of the Grill: Evaluate the overall dimensions of the grill to ensure it fits your outdoor space. A compact grill is suitable for small patios or balconies, while a larger model may require ample space and can be ideal for backyard gatherings.
- Portability: If you plan to take your grill on camping trips or to tailgating events, consider a portable model. These grills are designed to be lighter and often come with foldable legs or wheels for easy transport.
- Fuel Type: Decide between propane, natural gas, or charcoal options as this will influence the size and design of the grill. Each fuel type has its own advantages and may dictate the size and features you should look for, such as built-in tanks for propane or connections for natural gas lines.
What Maintenance Tips Can Help Keep My Broil King Grill in Top Condition?
To maintain your Broil King grill in top condition, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your grill clean is essential for its longevity. After every use, scrape the grates to remove food residue and grease, and periodically wash the exterior with mild soap and water to prevent rust and corrosion.
- Check and Replace Burners: Inspect the burners for any signs of wear or damage, such as rust or holes. If they are not functioning properly, consider replacing them to ensure even heat distribution and optimal cooking performance.
- Inspect and Clean Grease Trays: Regularly check the grease trays for buildup, as excess grease can lead to flare-ups and possible fire hazards. Clean them thoroughly after every few uses to maintain safety and efficiency.
- Cover When Not in Use: Using a grill cover protects your Broil King from the elements, preventing rust and wear. Invest in a high-quality, weather-resistant cover to ensure your grill remains in great shape year-round.
- Check Propane Levels: If you have a propane grill, regularly check the propane levels and connections for leaks. Replace empty tanks promptly and ensure that all connections are secure to avoid any safety issues.
- Seasoning the Grates: To prevent food from sticking and to protect the grates from rust, season your grates by applying a light coat of vegetable oil before cooking. This creates a non-stick surface and extends the life of the grill grates.
- Store Properly: When not in use for extended periods, store the grill in a dry, sheltered place. This helps to prevent moisture accumulation and protects the grill from harsh weather conditions that can lead to deterioration.