There’s a familiar story for many backyard chefs. You head to a big-box store, find a decent-looking grill for a few hundred dollars, and feel pretty good about it. The first summer is great. The second, you start noticing rust spots and uneven flare-ups. By year three, the igniter is a memory, the “flavorizer bars” have disintegrated, and you’re fighting hot and cold spots that could burn a burger on one side while leaving the other raw. We’ve been there. It’s a frustrating and expensive cycle of replacing what should be a durable piece of outdoor equipment. We were searching for an escape from this “disposable grill” trap—a grill that offered the durability of stainless steel and the features of a premium model, but without the thousand-dollar price tag. That’s when we set our sights on the Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill.
- 52000 BTUs COOKING POWER - Four main burners and one side burner with total 52,000 BTUs deliver powerful heat and great grilling experience
- LARGE COOKING AREA - 570 square inches of total cooking area offers plenty of grilling space; 405 square inches of primary cooking area and 165 square...
What to Consider Before Buying a Propane Gas Grill
A propane grill is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for convenient, controllable, and delicious outdoor cooking. It’s the centerpiece of summer barbecues, weeknight family dinners, and weekend gatherings. The main benefits are speed and control. Unlike charcoal, a propane grill heats up in minutes with the push of a button, and you can instantly adjust the flame to go from a high-sear for steaks to a low, indirect heat for chicken. This convenience means you’re more likely to use it regularly, turning any meal into an outdoor occasion.
The ideal customer for this type of cabinet-style grill is a homeowner or renter with a dedicated patio, deck, or backyard space who cooks for a family or regularly entertains guests. They value both performance and aesthetics, wanting a grill that not only cooks well but also looks like a permanent, quality fixture in their outdoor living area. On the other hand, this grill might not be suitable for those with very limited space, like a small apartment balcony, or for those who need portability for camping or tailgating. For them, a smaller, more portable grill or even a griddle might be a better fit.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Measure your available outdoor space carefully. The Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill has a footprint of 54.1 inches wide with its side shelves up. You’ll need to account for this, plus at least a few feet of clearance around the grill for safety and ease of movement while you cook.
- Capacity/Performance: Look at the total cooking area and the BTU (British Thermal Unit) output. With 570 square inches of total space and 52,000 BTUs, this grill is sized to handle everything from a few burgers for a weeknight dinner to a full spread for a party. The number of burners (four, in this case) also dictates your ability to create different heat zones for versatile cooking.
- Materials & Durability: This is where many budget grills fail. Look for high-quality materials in key areas. The Monument Grill uses stainless steel for its burners, flame tamers, and lid, which offers superior resistance to rust and corrosion compared to the painted or porcelain-coated steel found on many competitors. While not every panel is stainless, the most critical components are, which is a significant advantage for longevity.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Features like an electronic ignition system, a clear viewing window, and an easy-to-remove grease management system make a huge difference in the day-to-day experience. Cleaning is a major part of grill ownership, and a system with a removable drip tray and pan, like the one we found on this model, simplifies what is often the worst part of grilling.
Finding a grill that balances all these factors can be a challenge, especially in a crowded market. It’s about finding the sweet spot between price, performance, and longevity.
While the Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- High-Heat Propane Gas BBQ Grill – This 4-burner gas grill with an additional 8,500 BTU side burner delivers a total of 46,500 BTU. Enjoy rapid...
- ❤ STAINLESS STEEL BURNERS: This propane gas grill has 3 Stainless Steel burners, can put out 30,000 BTU-per-hour with integrated piezoelectric ignition...
- Heavy-Duty Griddle Plate – Built with a 4mm thick, reinforced hot-pressed steel griddle that ensures excellent heat retention and durability. Perfect for...
First Impressions: Unboxing a Grill That Punches Above Its Weight
Upon arrival, the first thing we noticed was the sheer weight of the box; this is not a flimsy piece of equipment. As confirmed by numerous users, the packaging is exceptional. Every single component was individually wrapped in plastic and secured with thick styrofoam, minimizing the risk of shipping damage—a common complaint with other brands. Assembly, while a multi-step process, was surprisingly straightforward. The instructions were clear, and many of the screws were pre-started, requiring you to simply loosen, slide a panel into place, and re-tighten. This thoughtful touch saved considerable time and frustration. It took us about 90 minutes at a steady pace. Once assembled, the Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill is genuinely impressive to look at. The brushed stainless steel finish, heavy-duty lid, and the cool blue glow of the LED-backlit knobs give it an aesthetic that belongs to a grill costing twice as much. It immediately felt like a substantial upgrade to our outdoor space.
What We Like
- Excellent heating power and consistency across the cooking surface
- Premium features like LED knobs and a viewing window at a budget-friendly price
- Substantial use of stainless steel in critical components for durability
- Thoughtful design choices like an easy-to-clean grease tray and included grill cover
Potential Drawbacks
- Some non-structural components like cabinet doors feel thin compared to the heavy-duty lid
- Inconsistent quality control reported by some users, with occasional dents or misaligned parts
A Deep Dive Into the Monument Grill’s Performance
A grill can look great, but the real test is in the cooking. We spent several weeks putting the Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill through its paces, cooking everything from delicate fish to thick-cut steaks, rotisserie chicken, and mountains of vegetables. Here’s our detailed breakdown of how it performed.
Assembly and Build Quality: A Mixed But Ultimately Positive Experience
Let’s address the elephant in the room: assembly and build quality. This is often a major point of contention for grills ordered online, and user feedback reflects a spectrum of experiences. We found the assembly process to be far better than anticipated. The manual was clear, with well-illustrated diagrams. As one user noted, “THERE ARE ONLY 23 SCREWS to assemble the base,” which is a testament to the efficient design. The pre-installed screws were a fantastic touch. However, we also understand the frustrations of others. Some users reported receiving parts with minor dents or scratches despite the excellent packaging, suggesting quality control issues at the factory level. We also concur with the observation that the cabinet doors and side shelves are made of a thinner gauge metal than the main grill body and lid. The hood itself is impressively heavy and solid, retaining heat exceptionally well.
Where this grill truly shines for its price is the copious use of stainless steel. The four main burners, the flame tamers (the metal tents that protect the burners and vaporize drippings), and the entire grease management system are all stainless. This is crucial for longevity. One user who grills frequently mentioned, “This product offers more stainless steel than any other grill I’ve owned” in this price range, a sentiment we strongly echo. This focus on putting quality materials where they count most—in the cookbox—is a smart trade-off. While the cabinet doors might feel a bit light, the parts that handle the fire and food are built to last. For those looking for a grill with a solid core, you can see its full feature set and component details online.
Cooking Power and Heat Control That Inspires Confidence
With a total output of 52,000 BTUs across its four main burners and one side burner, the Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill is a powerhouse. The electronic ignition fired up every burner on the first try, every single time. What impressed us most was how quickly and evenly it heated. Within 10 minutes, we had the internal temperature screaming past 500°F, ready for a perfect sear. This rapid pre-heating is something we typically see on much more expensive models. One user confirmed this, stating, “This grill heats faster than the old one I had (Charboil).” We found the heat distribution to be remarkably consistent, with no significant hot or cold spots across the main 405-square-inch cooking surface. This allowed us to confidently use the entire grate, cooking strip steaks to a perfect medium-rare in under 10 minutes.
The four-burner design provides excellent temperature zone control. We could crank two burners on high for searing while leaving the other two on low for indirect cooking of more delicate items like chicken thighs or sausages. The temperature remained steady and responsive to our adjustments. We were particularly impressed by its performance in less-than-ideal weather. Echoing one user’s experience, we found it maintained “very steady flames (despite breezy days) and maintains heat very consistently.” This reliability is a game-changer. The 12,000 BTU side burner is also a fantastic addition, perfect for sautéing onions, simmering a BBQ sauce, or cooking side dishes in a cast iron pan without having to run back and forth to the kitchen. The sheer cooking versatility offered by this powerful and reliable heating system is its strongest selling point.
Premium Features That Elevate the Grilling Experience
What truly sets the Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill apart from its direct competitors is the suite of features that are typically reserved for high-end grills. The most noticeable of these are the blue LED-backlit control knobs. While they might seem like a gimmick, they are incredibly practical for evening or nighttime grilling, providing clear visibility of your settings without needing a flashlight. They also add a cool, high-tech ambiance to the grill that just looks fantastic on the patio after dark.
The glass viewing window in the lid is another thoughtful inclusion. It allows you to check on your food’s progress without lifting the lid and releasing precious heat and smoke. This is especially useful for longer cooks or when baking on the grill. As some users have noted, the window will inevitably get greasy over time and require cleaning, but we found the benefit of a quick visual check to be well worth the occasional wipe-down with a good cleaner. Another huge plus is the included heavy-duty grill cover. Most brands make you purchase this separately for $40-$60, so its inclusion here adds significant value and ensures your investment is protected from the elements from day one. Finally, the cleanup system, with its full-width, slide-out stainless steel grease tray and catch pan, is brilliantly simple and effective. As one happy user explained, “Now I can cover them with aluminum foil and after a while, just take it out and replace the foil, keeping the trays as new.” These features combined make the grilling process more enjoyable, convenient, and efficient from start to finish.
What Other Users Are Saying
Scanning through a wide range of customer feedback, a clear picture of the Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill emerges. The overwhelming sentiment is positive, with most users feeling they received incredible value for their money. One user captured this perfectly, saying, “For a low end price, this grill is impressive.” Many, like us, praised the rapid and even heating, the stylish design, and the inclusion of premium features. One customer who grills 2-3 nights a week was able to “get the grill to 400 degrees on high using 1 burner,” highlighting its efficiency and power.
However, the feedback isn’t universally perfect. The most common point of criticism revolves around quality control. Several users reported their grills arriving with dents or bent parts, even when the outer box was undamaged. As one frustrated buyer noted, “This damage clearly happened BEFORE it was packaged.” This suggests inconsistencies in the manufacturing process. Other critiques mention the thinner metal used for the cabinet and side tables, which one person described as “EXTREMELY flimsy paper thin sheets of steel.” While our experience was positive, these reports are important to consider. It seems that if you receive a well-manufactured unit, you’ll be thrilled, but there is a tangible risk of receiving a flawed one.
How Does the Monument Grill Compare to the Alternatives?
The Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill is a fantastic all-around backyard grill, but it exists in a diverse market. Depending on your specific needs for portability, cooking style, or raw power, one of these alternatives might be a better fit.
1. Coleman Fold ‘N Go 6000 BTU Portable Propane Grill
- Portable folding grill with built-in handle for easy transport and storage
- Delivers 6,000 BTUs of heat across 105 sq. in. of grilling surface
The Coleman Fold ‘N Go is on the opposite end of the spectrum from the Monument. It’s built for one thing: ultimate portability. With just 6,000 BTUs and a small cooking surface, it’s not designed to feed a large party. However, for campers, tailgaters, or anyone with a tiny balcony, it’s an ideal solution. It’s lightweight, folds up for easy transport, and runs on small, disposable propane canisters. If your primary need is grilling on the go and you value portability above all else, the Coleman is the clear choice. The Monument is for someone creating a permanent outdoor cooking station.
2. BLACKSTONE 36” Omnivore Griddle Folding Shelves
- Cook for a Crowd: Make up to 47 fried eggs, 21 pancakes, 30 burgers, or 27 steaks on this spacious 768 square inch griddle. Invite family and friends over...
- Cook for a Crowd: Make up to 47 fried eggs, 21 pancakes, 30 burgers, or 27 steaks on this spacious 768 square inch griddle. Invite family and friends over...
The Blackstone griddle offers a completely different cooking experience. Instead of grates, it has a large, flat solid steel surface. This makes it unsuitable for getting classic grill marks on a steak but absolutely phenomenal for things a traditional grill struggles with: smash burgers, bacon, eggs, pancakes, hibachi-style stir-fries, and chopped cheesesteaks. If your ideal outdoor cooking involves breakfast spreads or diner-style meals, the Blackstone is your champion. Choose the Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill for traditional BBQ, smoking, and roasting with an open flame.
3. Concord 16″ Banjo Wok Burner with Stand
- Concord Professional 16" Stronghold burners are capable to putting out up to 270,000 BTU and are built like tanks. This is part of our professional series,...
- This is our DROP IN WOK Edition, this means that there is a custom built wok ring that allows you to drop your 11" or wider wok into the burner. Drop in...
The Concord Banjo Burner is a highly specialized tool, not a versatile grill. With a staggering potential output of up to 270,000 BTUs, it’s designed for high-intensity, specific tasks like authentic wok cooking (achieving “wok hei”), large-batch home brewing, or turkey frying. It has one function: to produce a massive, concentrated flame. It offers none of the nuance, temperature control zones, or enclosed cooking space of the Monument grill. This is a piece of equipment for a serious hobbyist with a specific need, whereas the Monument grill is the do-it-all workhorse for the average family.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill Worth It?
After extensive testing and analysis, our answer is a resounding yes. The Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill delivers an incredible amount of performance and style for its price point. It successfully bridges the gap between cheap, disposable grills and exorbitantly priced premium models. The powerful and even heating, generous cooking space, and smart use of stainless steel in critical areas make it a reliable and durable cooking machine. When you add in the features like LED-lit knobs, a viewing window, and an included cover, the value proposition becomes undeniable.
While we acknowledge the valid concerns from some users about quality control and the thinner gauge metal on some non-structural parts, our own experience was overwhelmingly positive. For the home chef looking to seriously upgrade their backyard setup without emptying their wallet, this grill represents one of the best balances of features, power, and price on the market today. If you’re ready to break the cycle of replacing your grill every few years and invest in a centerpiece that will serve you well for many seasons to come, we highly recommend you check the latest price and availability of the Monument Grills 4-Burner grill.
Last update on 2025-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API