While both brands help you achieve a perfect backyard barbecue, Nexgrill and KitchenAid grills serve entirely different customers. Nexgrill focuses on affordable, accessible models for casual grillers and first-time buyers, emphasizing value and ease of use. KitchenAid targets the premium market with high-performance, durable grills made from heavy-duty materials, designed for serious outdoor chefs willing to invest in longevity and style.
Here's a detailed comparison to help you decide which grill brand is the right choice for your backyard setup and cooking style.
Nexgrill Grills
Nexgrill has built its reputation on offering functional, budget-friendly grills that make outdoor cooking accessible to everyone. The brand strikes a balance between solid performance and an affordable price point, making it a popular choice found in big-box stores. Their lineup is known for being user-friendly, with straightforward assembly and features designed for convenience, like side burners and multiple cooking zones, all without a hefty price tag.
- What it is: A brand of affordable and versatile gas, charcoal, and combo grills designed for casual home cooks and beginner grilling enthusiasts.
- Key features: Straightforward controls, side burners, wide range of sizes from portable to large multi-burner units, and simple assembly.
- Price: Highly accessible, with models starting around $100 and mid-range options typically falling between $300-$500.
- Style: Functional and utilitarian. Most designs feature black or basic metallic finishes that prioritize function over high-end aesthetics.
- Availability: Widely available at major retailers like The Home Depot and Walmart, making them very easy to purchase.
- Pros: Excellent value for the price. Wide variety of models suit different needs and spaces. Easy for beginners to assemble and operate. Frequently on sale at major retailers.
- Cons: Materials are less premium and may show wear or rust over time with heavy use or exposure. Construction isn't as robust as high-end brands. Lacks the advanced cooking features of more expensive competitors.
Nexgrill is the go-to brand for anyone on a budget, new to grilling, or looking for a reliable, no-frills grill for occasional backyard cookouts.
Shop this brand: nexgrill.com
KitchenAid Grills
Leveraging its renowned legacy in high-end kitchen appliances, KitchenAid brings premium craftsmanship, performance, and style to the world of outdoor grilling. KitchenAid grills are built to last, using high-grade stainless steel and robust components that deliver consistent cooking results. They are designed for homeowners and serious grilling enthusiasts who view their grill as a long-term investment and a centerpiece of their outdoor kitchen or patio.
- What it is: A line of premium-quality, high-performance grills designed for serious outdoor chefs and those who prioritize durability and design.
- Key features: Advanced cooking technology, even heat distribution, precise temperature control, and heavy-duty stainless steel construction.
- Price: Positioned in the premium category, with models typically starting around $800 and reaching well over $2,000 for larger, feature-rich units.
- Style: Sleek, modern, and polished. The extensive use of stainless steel and clean lines creates an upscale aesthetic that complements stylish outdoor living spaces.
- Materials/Construction: Built with premium, corrosion-resistant stainless steel for the body, burners, and grates, ensuring longevity and performance.
- Pros: Superior build quality and durability. Stylish design elevates outdoor spaces. Delivers excellent, even cooking performance. Strong brand reputation for quality and customer support.
- Cons: A significantly higher price point puts it out of reach for a budget-conscious shopper. Larger footprints may not be suitable for small patios or balconies. The advanced features might be more than a casual griller needs.
A KitchenAid grill is ideal for the dedicated outdoor cook who wants top-tier performance, lasting durability, and a clean, modern aesthetic.
Shop this brand: kitchenaid.com
Nexgrill vs. KitchenAid Grill Comparison
Quality & Materials
This is where the most significant difference lies. Nexgrill grills are constructed to meet a specific budget, often using coated steel and lower-grade stainless components. While perfectly adequate for casual use, they are more susceptible to rust and wear over a few seasons, especially if left uncovered in harsh weather. The grates and burners are functional but may not match the longevity of premium materials.
KitchenAid builds its grills with heavy-duty, high-grade stainless steel across the entire body, lid, burners, and cooking grates. This ensures excellent heat retention, even cooking, and superior resistance to rust and corrosion. The overall feel is much more substantial and robust, signaling a product designed to last for many years of frequent use.
Performance & Features
Nexgrill grills are reliable performers for everyday tasks like grilling burgers, hot dogs, and chicken. Features like side burners add versatility for a low cost, but the primary focus is straightforward, effective grilling. Heat distribution can sometimes be uneven on entry-level models, and temperature control is generally solid but not as precise as premium alternatives.
KitchenAid grills are engineered for precise cooking. They boast powerful burners that provide consistent, even heat across the entire cooking surface, eliminating hot and cold spots. This allows for better searing, roasting, and more controlled cooking. Advanced features on KitchenAid models, such as integrated thermometers and zone cooking, are designed for enthusiasts who want to master their craft.
Style & Aesthetics
Nexgrill prioritizes function over form. Their designs are traditional and utilitarian, typically featuring a black powder-coat finish with some silver-toned accents. While they are not unattractive, they are not designed to be statement pieces, they're built to get the job done without calling attention to themselves.
KitchenAid grills are designed to be a focal point of an outdoor kitchen or patio. With their gleaming, polished stainless steel construction and clean, modern lines, they exude a professional quality that matches upscale outdoor furniture and decor. A KitchenAid grill is as much about aesthetics as it is about performance.
Price & Value
There is a vast price gap between the two brands. A top-of-the-line Nexgrill may cost around the same as an entry-level KitchenAid. For short-term value or for someone who only grills a dozen times a year, Nexgrill offers incredible bang for the buck. You get a fully functional grill for a few hundred dollars.
KitchenAid represents a long-term value proposition. The steep upfront cost buys you a product that will likely outlast several budget grills, perform better, and look more premium. If you grill multiple times a week and want a durable outdoor appliance that will last for years, the initial investment in a KitchenAid can be justified.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both brands offer solid grilling options, but they cater to very different needs and priorities.
Choose Nexgrill if:
- You're on a firm budget and need a grill for under $500.
- You are new to grilling and want an easy-to-use, low-commitment introductory model.
- You have a smaller patio or limited outdoor space.
- You grill occasionally for small family gatherings or weekend cookouts.
Choose KitchenAid if:
- You are a serious outdoor cook who values premium performance and durability.
- You want your grill to be a stylish, long-lasting centerpiece for your patio or outdoor kitchen.
- You are willing to invest more upfront for a grill that will last for many years.
- You need precise temperature control and even heating for more ambitious grilling projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Nexgrill and KitchenAid grills?
The core difference is price and quality. Nexgrill is a budget-focused brand offering good, functional grills for a low price point, while KitchenAid is a premium brand focused on high-quality materials, superior performance, and durable construction for a significantly higher price.
Which grill brand is more durable?
KitchenAid is unequivocally more durable. It uses higher-grade stainless steel for its body, burners, and grates, which provides excellent resistance to rust and wear, ensuring a much longer product lifespan compared to the more budget-oriented materials used by Nexgrill.
Is Nexgrill a good brand for beginners?
Yes, Nexgrill is an excellent choice for beginners. Their grills are affordable, easy to assemble, and straightforward to operate, providing a great way to start grilling without a large financial commitment.
Are KitchenAid grills worth the money?
For avid grillers and those who prioritize long-term quality, a KitchenAid grill is worth the investment. The superior build quality, cooking performance, and longevity mean it will perform reliably for many years, often outlasting multiple cheaper grills.
Where are Nexgrill grills sold?
Nexgrill products are primarily sold through big-box retail stores like The Home Depot and Walmart, as well as on their respective websites. This wide availability makes them very easy to find and purchase.
Do KitchenAid grills rust?
Due to their high-grade stainless steel construction, KitchenAid grills are highly resistant to rust. While no metal is completely immune to the elements forever, proper care and covering will keep them looking great for a very long time.
How long do Nexgrill grills typically last?
With proper care and maintenance, a Nexgrill can last anywhere from 3 to 5 years. Lifespan is dependent on usage, climate, and whether it's kept covered. More entry-level models may show wear sooner than their more expensive counterparts.
Which brand offers a better warranty?
KitchenAid typically offers a more comprehensive and longer warranty on its grills, especially for key components like burners and the firebox, reflecting the brand's confidence in its premium materials and construction.
At Interior Insider, we're dedicated to curating the best in home decor, interior design, and home essentials to help you discover brands we think you'll love. Every brand we feature is independently selected by our editorial team based on quality, design, and craftsmanship. When you make a purchase through our links, Interior Insider may earn a commission - which helps support our small team and allows us to continue bringing you inspiration and expert advice for creating your perfect space.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore our curated design guides to find your next favorite piece.
