Buying a luxury outdoor grill shouldn’t feel like guesswork.
Every brand claims to be the best. But when you're spending anywhere from $7,000 to over $22,000, you deserve straight answers, not marketing fluff.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best professional BBQ grills for 2025 with real-world insight, not just specs pulled from a brochure.
You’ll learn the key differences between Kalamazoo, Lynx, DCS, and Hestan, and how to choose the right grill based on your cooking style, not just the price.
We’ll also cover:
As a bonus, we’ll show you how to build your outdoor kitchen like a pro without blowing your budget on features you don't need.
Let’s jump in.
📌Skip Ahead
Starting Price |
Searing Burner |
Rotisserie |
Smoker/ Charcoal Option |
Customization |
Best for |
|
Kalamazoo |
$22,000+ | No (wood/charcoal achieves high sear) | Yes | Yes (Hybrid) | High | Hybrid Cooking with max flavor |
Lynx |
$6,299+ | Yes (Trident Infrared) | Yes | Optional | Moderate | Fast searing, infrared performance |
DCS |
$7,299+ | Yes (Infrared Rotisserie) | Yes | Yes | Limited | Good balance of power and versatility |
Hestan |
$7,499+ | Yes (Infrared Rotissirie) | Yes | Optional | 12 Colors | Style, build quality, and customization |
Kalamazoo offers a range of grill sizes in both built-in and freestanding models, including 28, 37, 48, and 54 inches.
These grills are built to order and unique in more ways than one—as they should be, given the price tag.
Kalamazoo started as a sheet metal shop in Kalamazoo, Michigan, back in 1906.
Here’s why you might want one.
One of my best friends is a professional griller. I’ve learned that professional grill masters are a different breed.
None of them cook with gas.
They all have their own proprietary blends of wood and charcoal, using fully customized grills to get the perfect flavor.
With the Kalamazoo Hybrid Fire Grill, you get that same flavor and texture—but with the speed and convenience of gas.
The burners are located below a drawer that opens easily, making ignition simple. But what really sets it apart is the flavor.
You get the depth and texture of charcoal and wood, without sacrificing performance.
Natural Convection
Kalamazoo’s deep-well construction allows more air circulation for natural convection, helping food cook more evenly and absorb more flavor from the wood or charcoal.
Searing Capability
Unlike Hestan, Lynx, and DCS, Kalamazoo doesn’t use an infrared searing burner.
Instead, when you add charcoal or wood, the grill reaches searing temperatures up to 1,200 degrees. That's hotter than a standard infrared element at 1,100 degrees.
Burner Output
Like Hestan and Lynx, Kalamazoo’s burners deliver 25,000 BTUs each.
But these cast brass burners weigh about 14 pounds and have rear-facing ports that are less likely to clog over time.
Clean Up
The deep well also simplifies cleanup. Ash and grease collect in a bottom-mounted system that’s easy to access.
Customization
You can customize your Kalamazoo with grates for meat, fish, vegetables, or even a griddle for breakfast.
Marine-Grade Stainless Steel
If you live near the ocean, Kalamazoo also offers grills in marine-grade stainless for a higher cost.
"Marine grade" is often used as a marketing term, but in this case, it refers to better-quality steel or a taurine finish that resists rust.
Kalamazoo is one of the few brands actually built to last in coastal environments.
Each Kalamazoo is handcrafted in Michigan and signed by the people who built it.
In 2022, Kalamazoo introduced a new series. It was their first without the Hybrid Fire Grill. These include the 42-inch K42DB and 54-inch K54DB.
These models are better insulated than any other grill on the market, each weighing 360 pounds (compared to 240 pounds for most brands).
Kalamazoo also lowered the height by two inches to preserve natural airflow for convection cooking.
Each grill features a rotisserie with two infrared burners and laser-cut stainless steel grates that retain heat and produce excellent sear marks.
The price started at $12,500. In 2023, these models became available only in marine-grade stainless, nearly doubling the price.
Kalamazoo grills don’t have many weaknesses.
Some may prefer the precision of an infrared sear burner, but the charcoal and wood options more than make up for it in flavor and texture.
That said, the infrared rotisserie burner outputs 18,000 BTU—slightly less than Hestan’s.
And as you’d expect, this kind of quality comes at a cost.
The non-hybrid marine-grade drop-in model starts at $19,000. Hybrid freestanding models start at $22,000.
Finally, expect a wait. Due to demand and the handcrafted nature of each unit, it may take over two months to receive your grill.
✔️Cooks with gas, wood, or charcoal
✔️Reaches searing temps up to 1,200°F
✔️Durable marine-grade stainless steel option
✔️Custom grates for meat, fish, vegetables, and griddles
✔️Even cooking from natural convection design
✔️Easy ash and grease cleanup
✔️Hand-built in the U.S.
❌Long wait times (over two months)
❌No dedicated infrared sear burner
❌Rotisserie burner is less powerful than some competitors
❌Limited availability
🔍Read More: Problems with Kalamazoo Grills
Lynx offers a wide range of grill sizes in both built-in and freestanding models, including 30, 36, 42, and 54 inches.
Lynx was the first true professional grill and has evolved more than any other brand, thanks to its ceramic burners and infrared searing technology.
Lynx grills come in several configurations: all gas burners, a mix of gas and Trident infrared, all infrared, or single-sear burner setups.
You can now choose an all-sear model, a single-sear burner, or a gas-only setup depending on how you prefer to cook.
I always recommend one sear burner paired with gas burners for the flexibility to cook both ways.
Infrared Burner
Unlike traditional gas burners like those on DCS, the Trident infrared burner produces direct, high-intensity heat that spreads evenly across the cooking surface.
It sears meat quickly on the outside without overcooking the inside.
The Trident burner offers a wide temperature range from 300 to 1,000 degrees, allowing you to control heat without shifting food between zones.
You can even char vegetables and fruit by gently wilting them.
Ceramic Burner
Lynx uses ceramic burners instead of cast brass or metal.
Ceramic doesn’t corrode over time, making it ideal for long-term durability.
The burner ports are positioned on the underside to prevent clogging from grease and drippings.
Heat Distribution with Ceramic Radiant Briquettes
Lynx grills include ceramic radiant briquettes that help spread heat evenly and reduce flare-ups.
There’s also a slide-out shelf to catch drippings and make cleanup easier.
Lynx’s ceramic briquettes need to be cleaned by hand. You can't flip them for self-cleaning like you can with Hestan.
Instead, you’ll need to remove them, clean them manually, or replace them over time. It’s not a major issue, but it does take a bit more effort.
✔️Multiple size and configuration options
✔️Infrared burner allows for fast, high-heat searing
✔️Wide temperature control for better cooking precision
✔️Ceramic burners don’t rust and resist wear
✔️Even heat distribution across the grill
✔️Built-in rotisserie on most models
✔️Drip tray makes grease management easier
❌Ceramic briquettes require manual cleaning
❌No self-cleaning option for heat distribution system
❌Higher maintenance compared to some competitors
🔍Read More: Lynx vs. Hestan BBQ Grills
DCS offers a range of sizes for their grills, both built-in and freestanding, including 30, 36, and 48 inches wide.
DCS once claimed to be an “all sear” grill by using ceramic rods throughout the grill to increase heat and reduce flare-ups.
Now, they include a dedicated searing burner with an output of 24,000 BTU in the Series 7 and Series 9 grills.
Infrared burners heat faster because they direct heat more intensely. Gas spreads heat more gradually.
You need to pay close attention when using infrared, as the higher speed can cause food to burn more easily.
Here are the key differences between the DCS Series 7 and Series 9 grills:
Series 9 Grills
Series 7 Grills
The Series 9 line includes several key upgrades compared to the Series 7.
Light
Series 9 grills feature light-up knobs for better visibility during night grilling. The top workspace has also been redesigned for more usable space.
Grease Management
Both Series 7 and 9 share the same grease system. The surface tilts forward, draining into a front tray.
However, on the Series 7, foods like hot dogs may roll slightly due to the angled grates.
The Series 9 solves this by allowing the grates to lay flat.
Accessories
The Series 9 comes with a steaming tray and a removable wood and charcoal accessory.
These let you add different flavors while cooking.
DCS does not offer an all-infrared grill like Lynx, or color options like Hestan. Its charcoal feature doesn’t match the performance of Kalamazoo’s.
DCS also offers fewer size options than Lynx. Plus, you can’t buy a DCS grill fully assembled. It must be built from modular components.
Lastly, I’m not a fan of an all-searing grill. You need to monitor your food closely to avoid burning it.
✔️Strong searing performance with dedicated burner
✔️Offers both gas and infrared cooking options
✔️Ceramic rods distribute heat evenly and reduce flare-ups
✔️Series 9 includes helpful upgrades like hood lights, spring lid, and larger charcoal box
✔️Good rotisserie setup with infrared burner
✔️Wide range of accessories for added cooking flexibility
❌No all-infrared option
❌Fewer size and style choices than some competitors
❌Charcoal feature isn’t as powerful as Kalamazoo’s
❌No color customization options
❌Must be assembled from separate components
❌All-sear models can overcook food if not carefully managed
❌Series 7 grates may allow round foods to roll
Whether you prefer a built-in or freestanding grill, Hestan has options to fit your setup.
Freestanding models come in 36- and 42-inch widths, while built-ins are available in 30, 36, or 42 inches.
Grill Hood
You can move the hood with one finger, just like other top grills. But Hestan’s hood stays in place, allowing you to grill with it partially open.
Grates
Unlike Lynx, Hestan uses reversible ceramic briquettes for even heat, fewer flare-ups, and easier cleaning.
Heat Distribution
Unlike Lynx, Hestan uses reversible ceramic briquettes for even heat, fewer flare-ups, and easier cleaning.
Trellis Burner
Made from 321-grade stainless steel, the Trellis burner has ports on all four sides.
While most metal would rust in harsh environments, Hestan has tested this material in saltwater and found it outperforms standard 304 stainless steel.
Note: Marine-grade stainless steel typically refers to 316 stainless steel.
Variable Rotisserie Burner
Hestan’s rotisserie burner delivers between 12,000 and 18,000 BTU. It’s located on top, so you can cook on the utility shelf below.
The rotisserie motor is also hidden for a cleaner look.
Customization
Hestan is the only grill available in 12 bold California-inspired colors. Models are available in both built-in and freestanding formats.
Like the others, this is a high-quality grill. However, the burner ports face upward toward the food, which can lead to clogs over time.
✔️Good size and model variety
✔️Even heat and fewer flare-ups
✔️Strong searing and rotisserie performance
✔️Hood can stay open while cooking
✔️Easy-to-clean heat plates
✔️Custom color options
❌Burners can clog because they face upward
❌More expensive than other grills in the same size range
🔍Read More: Hestan BBQ Grills Review: Are They Worth the Price?
1. Least Expensive Marine-Grade Grills: Blaze Grills
What if you live near the ocean, in places like Nantucket or Hyannis, and want a marine-grade grill without paying Kalamazoo prices?
Blaze offers a solid alternative at a fraction of the cost.
It’s built to handle salty air, with marine-grade materials, good heat output, an infrared burner, and plenty of space to grill.
✔️Affordable for a marine-grade built-in grill
✔️Lifetime warranty on burners and stainless steel components
✔️Ideal for coastal environments with high salt exposure
❌Burners are limited to 14,000 BTUs each
❌The 32-inch width is unusual, which limits compatibility. It mainly fits Challenger Coastal outdoor grill islands
❌Not a high-powered grill; best suited for basic grilling near the water
Hestan’s “Aspire” line uses a traditional tubular burner rated at 23,000 BTU, compared to 25,000 in the standard Hestan models.
The rotisserie burner is fixed at 14,000 BTU, and the grates are standard stainless steel instead of the thicker diamond-cut version.
Series 7 is another lower-priced option. It has the same burner output but lacks the light-up knobs and easier cleaning features found in the Series 9.
You won’t get the smoking or steaming tray, and the lid is not spring-assisted.
The Lynx Sedona BBQ Grill is a more affordable model in the Lynx lineup, but it differs in both construction and origin.
Unlike other Lynx grills, the Sedona is made in China and uses a lower grade of stainless steel - specifically 201-grade.
Let’s talk about what you can expect from a professional grill and what they all have in common.
In other words, let’s get into the details.
All the grills listed below are made from high-quality stainless steel, including types 316, 304, or 201.
You won’t find any plastic or painted metals in these grills, which helps ensure durability and longevity.
"Marine grade" is mostly a marketing term, so it’s important to focus on the actual metal composition.
Kalamazoo and Blaze both offer marine-grade type 316 stainless steel.
Type 316 includes molybdenum, which makes it highly resistant to rust—ideal for anyone living near the ocean or other saltwater environments.
One exception: Kalamazoo’s grill heads use type 316, but the rest of the unit may not. There’s also a considerable upcharge for grills made entirely of marine-grade stainless.
Because 316 is harder to form and more expensive, most manufacturers use type 304 stainless instead.
On the other end, Lynx manufactures the Sedona grill using type 201 stainless steel. It’s more affordable but doesn’t hold up as well as 304 or 316 over time.
The burner output for all professional models is 25,000 BTU (British Thermal Units) per burner.
For comparison, Weber’s best grill, the Summit, offers a total of 65,000 BTU, but only 13,000 per burner.
A professional grill, with three burners at 25,000 BTU each, totals 75,000 BTU.
Each brand offers both built-in models for outdoor kitchens and freestanding models in a range of sizes.
They also provide matching appliances, so you can fully outfit your outdoor kitchen.
If you're planning an outdoor space, click here for our webinar and step-by-step guide.
When you're spending $7,000 to $22,000 or more on a professional grill, warranty coverage and service support aren’t just nice to have - they’re essential.
While all of these brands build grills designed to last, it’s smart to understand what’s covered (and what’s not) before you buy.
Here’s how the top brands compare on warranty, serviceability, and nationwide support:
Here’s the catch: warranty coverage may be national, but service is always local.
Just like with indoor appliances, some dealers are great at support. Others simply aren’t.
Warranty Coverage |
Service Considerations |
Lead Time / Availability |
|
Kalamazoo |
Lifetime on grill body and burners; 2 years on parts like ignition systems | Handcrafted in Michigan, parts can take time to ship; limited dealer network | Often made-to-order; expect 2+ months for delivery |
Lynx |
Lifetime on main burners and housing; 5 years on flame tamers, valves, and grates; 1-2 years on other parts | Good service network through dealers; easier parts replacement compared to boutique brands | Readily available stock (except custom configurations) |
DCS Series 9 |
Lifetime on stainless burners and grill body; 2-5 years on other components | Generally reliable service; assembled from modular components | Typically available, though special orders may take longer |
Hestan |
Lifetime on burners and grill body; 5 years on sear burner, rotisserie, and grates; 1-2 years on electrical parts | Service availability varies by region; better through certified dealers | Stock varies by color and configuration; custom colors may add lead time |
💡Pro Tip: If you’re buying from a dealer that doesn’t handle service directly, call the manufacturer or warranty provider first and ask:
- “Who handles service in my area?”
- “Are parts stocked locally or special order?”
Don’t assume. Verify.
Every video and blog seems to love every grill.
Nobody ever says, “Don’t buy this grill.”
But be careful when shopping for a high-end grill. Many don’t offer better construction or the high burner output you’d expect from a true professional model.
True story: One time, our chef placed her hand on a running grill to show the cold spots. So yes. Be cautious.
We don’t carry every brand, but we review all the good ones in our BBQ Buying Guide. It’s free. You can grab your copy by clicking this link.
First, they all have their merits. All of these grills deliver strong, consistent heat, along with rotisseries and sear burners.
The best grill isn’t always the biggest or the most expensive. It’s the one that fits how you like to cook.
Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right grill based on your grilling style, priorities, and outdoor setup:
Best Option |
Why It Works |
|
| Flavor-first hybrid cooking (wood, charcoal, gas) | Kalamazoo Hybrid Fire | Combines the control of gas with the depth of wood and charcoal flavor; true hybrid system with convection airflow |
| Fast searing, steakhouse crust, high heat control | Lynx with Trident Infrared Burner | Trident infrared delivers direct, even heat up to 1,000°F for quick, precise searing without overcooking |
| Balanced power, good smoker/rotisserie features, best all-around value | DCS Series 9 | Infrared rotisserie, optional smoker tray, strong burner output; modular design makes repairs and add-ons easier |
| Customization, color options, design-driven outdoor kitchens | Hestan Grills | Available in 12 bold colors with heavy-duty grates and premium build quality; rotisserie and sear burners included |
💡Pro Tip: Don’t just buy a grill. Choose the one that makes you want to cook every weekend. The right fit leads to fewer regrets and better meals.
Imagine the perfect barbecue experience with the right grill, smoker, griddle. Our BBQ Grill Buying Guide makes this dream a reality. Learn from the best brands like Lynx, Kamado Joe, and Weber.
Download now and make every barbecue a story worth telling. Over 1 million people have read a Yale Guide.