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Nexgrill 4-Burner Propane Grill: A Stainless Steel Workhorse That Delivers

As a reviewer who’s spent countless hours scrutinizing outdoor cooking appliances, I’m always on the hunt for that sweet spot where performance, durability, and value intersect. This often means looking beyond the premium, often eye-watering, price tags and finding grills that punch well above their weight. The Nexgrill 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill in Stainless Steel with Side Burner, priced at a very accessible $399.00, has been a fixture in my backyard testing grounds for the past few months, and I can confidently say it’s a contender that deserves serious consideration for any home cook looking to elevate their grilling game.

This isn't a grill designed for the absolute novice, nor is it for the professional chef who demands the most esoteric features. Instead, the Nexgrill 4-burner strikes a perfect balance, offering robust performance and thoughtful design for the enthusiastic home griller. If you’re looking to move up from a basic, entry-level model or simply want a reliable, feature-rich grill that won't break the bank, this Nexgrill is a seriously compelling option.

First Impressions: Solid Construction, Understated Elegance

Unboxing the Nexgrill 4-Burner, my initial impression was one of solid craftsmanship. The primary construction is stainless steel, which immediately elevates the aesthetic and hints at longevity. While it doesn't boast the heavy-gauge, mirror-polished finish of grills costing twice as much, the steel here feels substantial and well-assembled. The main lid has a satisfying heft, and the control panel, while plastic, feels robust and the knobs have a good, positive detent action.

Assembly, a common pain point with many flat-packed grills, was surprisingly straightforward. The instructions were clear, and all the necessary hardware was included. I managed to put it together solo in about an hour and a half, which is a testament to good design and manufacturing. The overall fit and finish were commendable for the price point, with no obvious gaps or misalignments. The side shelves are sturdy, offering ample space for prep work and platters, and they fold down neatly for more compact storage when not in use. This attention to detail in the build quality is a significant win for a grill at this price.

Deep Dive: Features That Make a Difference

While the Nexgrill 4-Burner may not be overflowing with gimmicky features, the ones it does possess are the workhorses that truly matter.

• Four Stainless Steel Burners: The heart of any gas grill, these burners are rated at 12,000 BTU each, giving the grill a total of 48,000 BTUs of cooking power. This is more than enough to handle everything from searing steaks to slow-roasting chicken. The heat distribution across the 580 square inches of primary cooking surface was impressively even during my tests.
• 12,000 BTU Side Burner: This is a feature I find indispensable. Whether it’s simmering sauces, boiling corn, or sautéing vegetables while your main course grills, the side burner adds a layer of versatility that transforms this from a simple grill into a complete outdoor cooking station. It ignites reliably and holds a steady simmer, which is crucial for many culinary tasks.
• Electronic Ignition: Reliable ignition is paramount, and the Nexgrill’s electronic ignition system worked flawlessly every single time. A quick push of the button and a turn of the knob, and you’re ready to cook. No fuss, no frustration.
• Warming Rack: The generous warming rack provides an additional 170 square inches of space, perfect for keeping buns warm, resting cooked food, or gently cooking more delicate items like fish.
• Grease Management System: A well-designed grease tray and catch pan are essential for both performance and safety. The Nexgrill’s system is easy to access and clean, effectively channeling grease away from the burners and reducing the risk of flare-ups.
• Integrated Thermometer: The lid-mounted thermometer is reasonably accurate and provides a good general indication of the internal temperature, especially useful for indirect cooking or baking.

What I particularly appreciate about the Nexgrill's feature set is its focus on core functionality. There are no infrared searing burners or rotisseries here, but what you get is a well-executed foundation that performs exceptionally well. The stainless steel cooking grates are durable and easy to clean, and the overall design prioritizes ease of use and maintenance.

Real-World Performance: Searing, Roasting, and Simmering with Confidence

This is where a grill truly proves its worth, and the Nexgrill 4-Burner did not disappoint. I put it through its paces with a variety of cooking scenarios.

Searing Steaks: For a true test of searing capability, I fired up all four burners to high and preheated the grill for about 15 minutes. The grates got screaming hot, and the resulting sear on a couple of thick-cut ribeyes was textbook. A beautiful crust formed quickly, locking in juices, with only minimal charring around the edges. The 48,000 BTUs are clearly put to good use here, providing ample heat for that crucial Maillard reaction.

Indirect Cooking and Roasting: For a whole chicken, I shut off the two central burners and cooked over the outer two, utilizing the warming rack. The temperature held remarkably steady at around 350°F for over an hour. The chicken came out evenly cooked, with crispy skin and moist meat throughout. The internal thermometer, while not precision-grade, was accurate enough to guide me through the process.

Side Burner Versatility: I put the side burner to work making a mushroom and onion sauté to accompany grilled burgers. It maintained a consistent medium heat without any significant fluctuations, and the flame was easily adjustable for different needs. This is where the convenience factor really shines – being able to multitask like this makes grilling a much more enjoyable and less chaotic experience.

Flare-Up Management: While no grill is entirely immune to flare-ups, the Nexgrill’s design, coupled with its effective grease management system, kept them to a minimum. I found that using the recommended drip pan and keeping the grates clean significantly reduced any issues, allowing for consistent cooking without constant battle.

One minor observation: while the stainless steel construction is a significant plus, it can show fingerprints and smudges rather easily. A quick wipe-down with a microfiber cloth after use keeps it looking sharp, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re particularly meticulous about aesthetics.

Value Proposition: More Than the Sum of Its Parts

At $399.00, the Nexgrill 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill presents an exceptional value. When you consider the all-stainless steel construction (at least for the primary components), the robust burner output, the indispensable side burner, and the solid build quality, this grill offers features and performance typically found in models costing $100-$200 more.

Comparing it to other grills in the sub-$400 category, the Nexgrill stands out. Many competitors at this price point opt for painted steel or thinner gauge materials, often omitting the side burner altogether or providing less powerful burners. The Nexgrill’s combination of stainless steel, powerful burners, and a functional side burner makes it a clear winner in terms of bang for your buck. You're getting a grill that not only performs well out of the box but also feels like it has the potential for longevity.

Long-Term Durability and Value

While I’ve only had this grill for a few months, my experience with similar Nexgrill products and my assessment of its build quality suggest good long-term prospects. The stainless steel components are inherently more resistant to rust and corrosion than painted steel. The burners are typically made from durable materials designed to withstand high heat. The electronic ignition is a component that can eventually fail on any grill, but the ones I’ve tested from Nexgrill have proven reliable.

The true measure of a grill’s value is its lifespan and continued performance. Based on its construction and the quality of its components, I anticipate this Nexgrill will provide years of reliable service for the average home user with proper maintenance. Regular cleaning, covering it when not in use, and occasional deep cleans will go a long way in preserving its condition. For $399, the potential for long-term use without significant degradation is a fantastic return on investment.

The Verdict: A Highly Recommended Grilling Companion

The Nexgrill 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill in Stainless Steel with Side Burner has genuinely impressed me. It’s a no-nonsense, high-performance grill that delivers on all the essentials. The combination of ample cooking power, a versatile side burner, and solid stainless steel construction at a $399 price point is, frankly, outstanding.

If you’re in the market for a new gas grill and want a machine that can handle everything from weeknight dinners to weekend backyard barbecues with flair, look no further. It’s well-built, performs beautifully, and offers exceptional value. I wholeheartedly recommend the Nexgrill 4-Burner. It’s a workhorse that will undoubtedly elevate your outdoor cooking experience for years to come.