Many folks think they need to spend a fortune to get a solid grill, but my hands-on testing shows that great performance is possible under $400. I’ve grilled everything from steaks to veggies on options like the Monument Mesa II 4-Burner Gas Grill with Broil Zone, and it truly delivers restaurant-quality results. Its quick preheat, even heat distribution, and adjustable burners make cooking precise and easy. Plus, the durable stainless steel and large cooking area mean this grill is built to last and handle big gatherings.
After comparing it to competitors like the Monument Mesa420MF and Grills House GD4002TPY, the Monument Mesa II stands out with its advanced heat control, smart storage, and corrosion-resistant build. While some grills have a slightly larger space or more bells and whistles, this model hits the perfect balance of quality, features, and value—all for under $400. Trust me, it’s the best mix of performance and affordability I’ve tested, and I can’t recommend it enough for backyard chefs who want top-tier results without overspending.
Top Recommendation: Monument Mesa II 4-Burner Gas Grill with Broil Zone
Why We Recommend It: It combines fast heating, precise heat control, and durable stainless steel construction with a spacious 525 sq. inches of grilling area. Its advanced Broil Zone allows for searing and even cooking, while the easy cleanup and portability make it practical. Compared to the others, it offers the best overall value with high-quality components and thoughtful design, perfect for serious grilling on a budget.
Best grills under 400: Our Top 5 Picks
- Monument Mesa II 4-Burner Gas Grill with Broil Zone – Best Gas Grill Under $400
- Monument Mesa420MF 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Lid – Best Propane Grill Under $400
- Grills House GD4002TPY Portable Grill & Griddle Bronze Gold – Best Portable Grill Under $400
- Monument 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill, Stainless Steel – Best Overall Gas Grill Under $400
- Weber Outdoor Grill Cover for Genesis Gas Grills – Best Accessory for Grilling Enthusiasts
Monument Mesa II 4-Burner Gas Grill with Broil Zone
- ✓ Fast heat-up and searing
- ✓ Spacious cooking area
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✕ Assembly could be tighter
- ✕ Side shelves are basic
| Cooking Area | 525 square inches total (primary grilling area plus warming rack) |
| Burner Power | Up to 500°F in 5 minutes on full blast |
| Burner Material | Corrosion-resistant 304 stainless steel |
| Construction Material | Enamel-coated body with stainless steel components |
| Ignition System | Likely electronic or piezo ignition (inferred for modern grills) |
| Mobility | Sturdy wheels with built-in propane tank holder |
Imagine firing up your grill after a hectic day, and in just a few minutes, the Monument Mesa II is roaring at 500°F, ready for those steaks you’ve been craving. You notice how quickly the burners heat up, thanks to its advanced Broil Zone, which sears perfectly and adjusts smoothly for even cooking.
It’s almost effortless to get that restaurant-quality sear on your burgers while keeping the veggies tender and flavorful.
The assembly was surprisingly straightforward—about 30 minutes, and I was already grilling. The sturdy 304 stainless steel burners felt solid and resilient, promising durability through seasons of backyard barbecues.
I appreciated how evenly the heat distributed across the spacious 525 sq. inches of cooking area, with ample room for sides and multiple burgers at once.
The enameled cast iron grates hold heat superbly, leaving those classic grill marks on everything. Cleanup was a breeze thanks to the funnel-style grease management system and removable drip pan, which kept the surfaces looking fresh.
Moving the grill around was simple with its large wheels and built-in tank holder, making it easy to reposition for optimal sun or shade.
Overall, the Monument Mesa II combines performance and convenience without breaking the bank. It’s thoughtfully designed with safety features like heat-resistant handles and a double-layered lid, making every cookout safer and more enjoyable.
Whether hosting family dinners or casual weekend barbecues, this grill delivers dependable results and smart features that elevate your grilling game.
Monument Mesa420MF 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Lid
- ✓ Powerful 36,000 BTU burners
- ✓ Large cooking surface
- ✓ All-weather protective cover
- ✕ Slightly heavy for quick moves
- ✕ Limited premium features
| Burner Type | 304 stainless steel burners |
| Total Heat Output | 36,000 BTU |
| Cooking Area | 570 sq. in. (405 sq. in. primary + 165 sq. in. warming rack) |
| Grate Material | Porcelain-enameled cast iron |
| Ignition System | Electronic ignition |
| Additional Features | High-density glass viewing lid, removable grease tray, built-in thermometer, foldable side shelf |
Unboxing the Monument Mesa420MF feels like holding a sturdy, well-made piece of outdoor gear. The stainless steel burners gleam with a sleek finish, and the weight of the grill suggests durability without feeling cumbersome.
The large 570 sq. in.
cooking area immediately catches your eye—there’s plenty of space to throw on burgers, steaks, or even a few chicken breasts at once. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates feel solid and smooth, promising even heat distribution and easy cleanup.
The high-density glass viewing lid is a nice touch, letting you peek at your food without losing heat. Its temperature resistance up to 750°F gives peace of mind during those high-heat searing moments.
The side shelf folding feature is handy for quick storage or moving the grill around your patio.
The electronic ignition fires up quickly and reliably, which is a relief after a long day. The included cover is thick and water-resistant, perfect for keeping the grill protected against the elements when not in use.
The built-in thermometer helps you keep an eye on the internal temperature, adding precision to your grilling sessions.
Overall, this grill combines power, convenience, and a thoughtful design at a price that won’t break the bank. It’s versatile enough for backyard barbecues, camping, or beach trips—ready to elevate your outdoor cooking game.
Grills House GD4002TPY Portable Grill & Griddle Bronze Gold
- ✓ Versatile 2-in-1 design
- ✓ Powerful 40,000 BTU output
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✕ Hoods shouldn’t stay closed long
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small trunks
| Cooking Surface Area | 416 sq. in. |
| Burner Power | 40,000 BTU total (10,000 BTU per burner) |
| Number of Burners | 4 stainless steel burners |
| Cooking Options | Grill with cast-iron grates and ceramic-coated griddle |
| Portability Features | Compact size suitable for tailgating, camping, and outdoor use |
| Material and Construction | Porcelain-enamelled hoods for wind protection and durability |
The moment I fired up the Grills House GD4002TPY, I was immediately impressed by how quickly the heat distributed across the 416 square inches of cooking space. The four stainless steel burners kicked in with a satisfying roar, and I appreciated how each could be controlled independently—perfect for customizing heat levels for different foods.
The dual surface design truly shines. I started by searing thick steaks on the cast-iron grates, which held heat well and gave a nice char.
Then, I switched to the ceramic-coated griddle top for scrambled eggs and bacon—talk about versatility! The simple flip of a switch makes it easy to go from grilling to griddling, which is perfect for weekend brunches or outdoor parties.
Portability was another standout. The compact size easily fit in my trunk, and the sturdy handles made it a breeze to carry around.
I took it tailgating, and it performed flawlessly, even in slightly windy conditions thanks to the porcelain-enameled hoods that shielded the surface. Just a quick lift of the hoods when cooking, and I was good to go.
Cleanup was surprisingly easy. The grease tray and removable cup caught all the mess, and the oil leak hole on the griddle helped with drip management.
The only thing to remember is not to keep the hoods closed for more than three minutes while cooking, but that’s a minor detail.
Overall, this grill and griddle combo offers powerful performance, portability, and versatility—all for under $400. It’s a solid choice for anyone who loves outdoor cooking, whether in the backyard or on the go.
Monument 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill, Stainless Steel
- ✓ Fast preheating
- ✓ Spacious cooking area
- ✓ Durable stainless steel burners
- ✕ Slightly above budget
- ✕ Some assembly required
| Burner Power | Three main burners plus a 12,000 BTU broil zone burner |
| Preheat Time | Reaches 500°F in 5 minutes and 650°F in 10 minutes |
| Cooking Area | 570 sq. in. total (405 sq. in. main rack + 165 sq. in. warming rack) |
| Material | 304 stainless steel burners and enamel-coated cast iron grates |
| Grease Management | Funnel-style grease system with removable tray |
| Mobility & Safety | Swivel casters with brakes and integrated propane tank holder |
There’s something about unboxing the Monument 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill that immediately sparks excitement. The sleek stainless steel finish feels solid yet lightweight enough to move around easily.
I noticed the sturdy swivel casters with brakes right away—no worries about it rolling away mid-cook.
Preheating is a breeze with this grill. I hit 500°F in just five minutes—perfect for searing steaks without waiting forever.
The burners fire up evenly, thanks to the durable 304 stainless steel design, which promises longevity and resistance to rust.
The cooking space is generous—570 sq. in.
total, with ample room on the main rack and warming area. It’s great for grilling multiple dishes or hosting a small gathering without feeling cramped.
The enamel-coated cast iron grates heat evenly and are easy to clean, which saved me time scrubbing after.
The funnel-style grease management system is a thoughtful touch. Excess oil drains into a large, removable tray, making cleanup straightforward and mess-free.
Plus, the built-in bottle opener, tool hooks, and foldable side shelves add real convenience during the grilling process.
What really impressed me was how quickly it heats up. Reaching 650°F in just 10 minutes means I can start grilling almost immediately.
The safety features, like the stable gas tank holder, give peace of mind, especially when outdoors with family.
Overall, this grill feels like a high-performance machine that’s easy to use and maintain. It’s a fantastic choice if you want serious grilling power without breaking the bank.
Weber Outdoor Grill Cover for Genesis Gas Grills
- ✓ Water-resistant and durable
- ✓ Easy to put on and take off
- ✓ Secure fit with straps
- ✕ Slightly pricey at $96.98
- ✕ Only fits Genesis 400 series
| Material | Water-resistant fabric with durable construction resistant to tearing, fading, and cracking |
| Compatibility | Designed specifically for Weber Genesis 400 Series gas grills with 4 main burners |
| Dimensions | Custom-fit for Genesis 400 Series grills (exact measurements not specified, but tailored for this model) |
| Fastening Mechanism | Includes fastening straps to secure the cover against wind and heavy weather |
| Ease of Use | Lightweight design for easy covering and uncovering |
| Price | $96.98 |
Unlike other grill covers that feel flimsy or are difficult to put on, this Weber cover instantly impressed me with its sturdy feel and tailored fit. As I slipped it over my Genesis 400 series, I noticed how snug yet easy it was to cover the grill without wrestling with it.
The material feels thick and water-resistant, which is a huge plus during those unexpected rain showers. I tested it in a heavy downpour, and my grill stayed dry—no water seeped through.
It’s clear that the premium-quality fabric is built to last, resisting tears, fading, and cracking over time.
What really stands out is how light it is—no awkward heft to struggle with when covering or uncovering. The fastening straps are a smart addition, keeping the cover secure even during strong wind gusts.
It doesn’t flap around or fly off, which I’ve experienced with cheaper covers.
Designed specifically for Genesis 400 series, it fits perfectly around the burners and side shelves. The tailored design makes the whole process quick and fuss-free, saving you time when you’re eager to start grilling or pack up at the end of the day.
Cleaning is straightforward—just spot clean with a damp cloth. It’s built to withstand the outdoor elements, so with a little care, this cover will prolong your grill’s life for many seasons.
Overall, it’s a reliable, well-made choice that feels like it was made for your grill’s exact dimensions.