You’re toying with your outdoor kitchen design… And it’s at the point where you have to choose the appliances you want.
An outdoor grill is a given, of course!
But what about all the other cooking appliances?
There’s flat top grills, pizza ovens, smokers… And to top it all off, there’s outdoor kitchen burners to consider.
Is an outdoor kitchen burner worthy of taking a spot in your island?
That’s just one of the many topics that will be covered in the following article. We’ll discuss top considerations, the types of burners you may encounter, and the best brands on the market.
We’ll begin with the why.
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Why Buy an Outdoor Kitchen Burner?
Here’s the thing. An outdoor kitchen burner will take up prime real-estate in your island.
So why does it deserve a spot?
It comes down to versatility.
Outdoor kitchen burners (particularly power and side burners) are an extremely versatile appliance.
Just think about it for a moment.
Your grill can only be used to cook certain foods. You’d never dream of making a sauce or noodle dish on one!
But with a burner… You can do both. In fact, you can cook anything you would normally cook on your indoor rangetop.
Therefore, the full spectrum of cooking techniques will be available to you… Right outdoors.
Which brings us to our second point.
In our minds, burners complete your summer kitchen. They bring the full functionality of your indoor kitchen, outdoors. (All you’re missing is an outdoor oven!)
If you want full access to the complete range of outdoor cooking potential… Adding an outdoor kitchen burner to your island is a no-brainer.
But which type should you purchase?
Want to bring your idea to life?
Types of Outdoor Kitchen Burners
When you think of an outdoor kitchen burner… You likely only have one idea in mind!
While stovetop burners are a popular option… There are actually three types to cover.
Side Burners
First and foremost, there’s the side burner. This is likely the type you’re imagining.
These are stovetop-style burners that sit wherever you want in your island. (Next to the grill generally makes the most sense.)
You have a couple options, too.
Both single side burners and double side burners are commonly offered.
If you just need one pan going at the cookout… A single burner will suffice. But if you need more, go for the double!
We will let you in on a little pro-tip, though.
If you install a single burner, there will often be space behind it that becomes unusable. If you instead opt for a double burner, you’re utilizing the full potential of that space.
But perhaps you need even more power.
Power Burners
That’s where the power burner comes into play.
This is an extra large burner that dishes out a massive amount of heat. Large seafood boils and pasta dinners are back on the menu here!
You can still make sauces and side dishes on a smaller scale, too.
But the versatility doesn’t end there!
Depending on the brand you choose… There’s also the option to convert your power burner into a flat top griddle or use it with a wok!
This allows you to showcase your favorite Asian-inspired flavors… And cook a nice breakfast alfresco on the flat top!
But if you’re a simple griller, you might prefer this last option.
Searing Stations
Depending on your familiarity with gas grills… You might already understand the concept of a searing station.
Many premium or luxury grills will come with an incorporated searing station. These are burners that use infrared heat to reach a scorching-hot temperature… Which is perfect for searing steak and other cuts of meat.
That’s exactly what a searing station is… It’s just a separate burner!
A searing station could be a great option if your grill doesn’t come with a sear burner… Or you simply want a dedicated space in your island for searing proteins.
Ultimately, this burner offers the least versatility of the three types… But depending on your needs, it might be the perfect fit!
Speaking of your needs… Let’s look at a few considerations before you buy.
Considerations Before You Buy
Purchasing an outdoor kitchen burner might seem like a straightforward process. You see a burner you like, and you buy it.
Believe it or not, it’s not always that simple!
Choosing the Right Burner for Your Needs
As with anything else… You must consider your needs before you make a final purchase.
This ensures you’ll be happy with the product, and avoid frustration!
Take some time to think about what type of burner would truly be best for your needs.
If you’re only concerned with getting a beautiful sear on your proteins… A sear burner might be the ticket.
If you want a low-profile way to whip up sauces and side dishes… A single or double side burner could be the right choice.
Or if you want full capacity for seafood boils, griddle cooking, and wok-driven cuisine… A power burner will be right up your alley.
Next, you’ll have to consider how you want your burner to sit in your BBQ island!
Built-In or Drop-In?
Interestingly, there are two configurations you can choose for your burner: built-in or drop-in.
Built-in options are likely what you’re more familiar with. They sit on the front edge of your island, with the knobs facing you.
These tend to be slightly easier to plan for, as they slide-in to a small cutout. Built-in burners are also more widely available… So you have more options at your disposal.
Then there’s the drop-in variety. These burners will literally be “dropped in” to the interior of your island countertop. They won’t sit flush with the countertop, but rather, float in the center.
Drop-in side burners can be a nice option if you have a corner or odd space that you can’t fill up otherwise. This will “save” some of the functional space of your island.
This is especially true of a drop-in power burner. It will sit lower in your island, which makes it easier to move pots to and from the burner.
Ultimately, neither option is better than the other. It simply comes down to personal preference.
However, our final point isn’t subjective at all!
Pay Attention to Quality
It’s no surprise to anyone that quality is key. Yet sometimes… We look for ways to cut corners in favor of saving money.
There’s a reason why the cliche, “you get what you pay for” rings true.
The higher the quality of your outdoor kitchen burner, the longer you can expect it to last.
So, what should you be looking for?
At the end of the day… It’s quite simple. There’s no better material for an outdoor appliance than 304 stainless steel!
This will provide superior rust and corrosion resistance… Which will ensure your burner is built to last the long haul.
You may encounter burners made with powder coated steel, aluminum, or 430 stainless steel.
And although less expensive… These materials are prone to rust and corrode in only a few years. (Especially if you live on the coast or in the north!)
Point is, it’s always well-worth shelling out the extra cash for 304 stainless steel… And a lifetime warranty!
That said… Let’s take a look at some brands!
Built in Outdoor Burners
Best Outdoor Kitchen Burner Brands
When you’re in the market for an outdoor kitchen burner… It’s important to survey all of your options!
Let’s begin.
Blaze Burner for Outdoor Kitchen
Features
Materials: 304 Stainless Steel
Price Range: $499.99 – $1,749.99
Warranty: Lifetime for Blaze Burner, 15 years for control valves, and 1 year for electrical or ignition components.
Blaze is one of the most popular outdoor appliance manufacturers out there… So it’s no surprise to see them on the list!
And when it comes to outdoor kitchen burners, you have several options at your disposal.
Currently, Blaze offers a single drop-in burner, double side burner, and power burner.
The single propane drop-in burner features a 12,000 BTU cast steel burner, stainless steel construction, and a cover for protection when not in use.
The natural gas double side burner is a similar story… There’s just two burners instead of one!
This burner features two 12,000 BTU brass plated burners, stainless steel construction, red LED knobs, and a stainless steel cover.
Finally, there’s the power burners. Blaze offers a power burner to match both their LTE and LUX grill lines.
Aside from aesthetics, there’s actually no discernible difference between the two.
Both run on natural gas, have a cast 304 stainless steel burner with a max 60,000 BTU heat output, stainless steel construction, red LED knobs, and a cover when not in use. The LTE version is slightly less expensive than the LUX.
Warranties are similar across the board as well. All Blaze burners come with a lifetime warranty. Control valves are covered for 15 years… And any electrical or ignition components are covered for 1 year.
For price, you’re looking at anywhere from $499.99 MSRP to $1,749.99 MSRP.
Overall, these outdoor kitchen burners look pretty good! The only thing we’d like to see is confirmation of the grade of steel used in these burners. If it’s not 304, there’s some cause for concern.
DCS Built-In Burner for Outdoor Kitchen
Features
Materials: Stainless Steel, 304 Stainless Steel
Price Range: $1,259.00 – $4,199.00
Warranty: 2 year limited for DCS Burners, 5 year on structure, interior and exterior parts.
DCS is another BBQ grill manufacturer with some unique burner options.
You’ll find the typical double burner and power burners here… But you’ll also find a double side burner combined with a flat top griddle! (Note that all options from DCS are available in natural gas or propane.)
DCS offers this burner and griddle combo in two separate lines: Liberty and Series 9.
The lower-cost Liberty version includes two 17,000 BTU side burners and a 12,000 BTU burner for the griddle plate. It comes with a Blanchard Ground non-stick surface and stainless steel construction.
The Series 9 combo features the same amount of power as the Liberty version… But they specify a U-shaped burner under the griddle, LED lit knobs, and 304 stainless steel construction.
Now, there’s the regular double burners.
Again, two series are available! You’ll find the Series 7 and Series 9 double burners.
The Series 7 double burners feature two 17,000 BTU burners, removable drip tray, protective cover, and stainless steel construction.
The Series 9 is virtually the same! You’ll also see the same burner power, drip tray, protective cover… But it also features 304 stainless steel construction and illuminated knobs.
Finally, there’s the Series 9 power burner.
This powerhouse shells out 70,000 BTUs of heat… But can also maintain a low heat down to 1,300 BTUs, for delicate dishes.
The burner is made from cast brass, while the rest of the construction features 304 stainless steel. There’s also a drip tray and cover for when not in use.
All DCS outdoor kitchen burners are covered by a 2 year limited warranty. There’s also a 5 year warranty on the structure, interior, and exterior parts.
Prices will range from $1,259.00 MSRP to $4,199.00, depending on the product.
Overall, we’d like to see a more robust warranty for the price… But the Series 9 options with complete 304 stainless steel construction look promising!
Summerset Outdoor Kitchen Gas Burners
Features
Materials: 304 stainless steel, brass
Price Range: $445.00 – $2,354.00
Warranty: Lifetime on workmanship, cooking grates, burners, burner covers, and valves. 3 years on electrical and all other components.
When it comes to Summerset outdoor kitchen burners… There’s no shortage of options!
So much in fact… That we can’t detail every single option here.
Summerset currently offers 3 series of burners, each designed to match their grill lines.
You’ll find 3 unique burner options for the Sizzler, TRL, and Alturi lines. For those unfamiliar with the Summerset grill classes… Sizzlers are economy grills, TRLs are premium grills, and Alturis are luxury grills.
Like DCS, options for natural gas and liquid propane side burners are available for all.
For burners… The Sizzler series offers a single side burner, double side burner, and double side burner with illuminated knobs.
Summerset claims 304 stainless steel construction on these burners… With brass being used for the burner itself.
The TRL Series offers a searing side burner, double side burner with illuminated knobs, and a power burner with illuminated knobs.
Again, the burners themselves will be brass… With 304 stainless steel construction otherwise.
In the Alturi line, you’ll find a side sear burner with an LED knob, double side burner with lit knobs, and a power burner with illuminated knobs.
Once again, the materials are the same here!
Across all burners, the BTUs range from 15,000 to 60,000. (Single burners on the low end, power burners on the high end.)
As for a warranty… Summerset offers a lifetime warranty on the workmanship, cooking grates, burners, burner covers, and valves. Electrical and all other components are covered for 3 years.
Prices on these burners range from $445.00 MSRP to $2,365.00 MSRP.
Summerset offers a great warranty on their burners… And for the price, it’s a good value for 304 stainless steel construction!
Fire Magic Outdoor Kitchen Side Burners & More
Features
Materials: Brass, Stainless Steel
Price Range: $903.00 – $2,479.00
Warranty: 3 year for outdoor kitchen burners, 1 year for ignition systems and electrical components.
Just like Summerset… Fire Magic is a popular grill manufacturer with a ton of outdoor kitchen burners!
Also like Summerset… Fire Magic’s burners are designed to match their associated grill lines. (And all options are available in natural gas or propane!)
The Classic, Choice, Aurora, and Echelon lines all have burner options to match their grills.
With the Classic being the most cost-effective option… You’ll see options for a drop-in single side burner, built-in side burner, double searing station, and single searing station. All will be made with stainless steel and have brass burners.
The Choice series features just a single and double side burner. Once again, you’ll find stainless steel construction with the burner itself being brass.
The Aurora series offers a double searing station, double side burner, power burner, single searing station, and single side burner.
No surprise here… The materials are stainless steel, and brass for the burners. You’ll also find illuminated knobs in this series.
Finally, there’s the Echelon line. You’ll encounter options for a double searing station, double side burner, power burner, single searing station, and single side burner.
And yes, you guessed it… There’s stainless steel construction with brass burners here, too! We can’t forget the illuminated knobs, either.
Looking across all Fire Magic burners… BTUs range from 15,000 to 60,000. (Starting from single burner to power burner.)
Fire Magic offers a 3 year warranty on their outdoor kitchen burners. Ignition systems and electrical components are covered for a period of one year.
When it comes to cost… Fire Magic burners start at around $903.00 MSRP and top out at $2,479.00.
For overall value, Fire Magic comes in at the middle of the road. They don’t have a best-in-class warranty… And an unspecified grade of stainless steel across all burners raises some concern. You’ll want to check in with them to confirm the quality before purchasing!
Twin Eagles Gas Burner for Outdoor Kitchen
Features
Materials: 304 Stainless Steel
Price Range: $1,703.41 – $3,726.14
Warranty: 2 years for burners.
Twin Eagles is known for their varied line of built-in grills… But their outdoor kitchen burners are far more limited.
Twin Eagles offers a single side burner, built-in double side burner, and power burner option. All of these are available in propane or natural gas.
Let’s take a look at each one in a little more detail.
The single side burner shells out 17,500 BTUs and is constructed completely from 304 stainless steel. The control knob is illuminated… And comes with a cover for protection when not in use.
The Twin Eagles double side burner is much the same. There’s just two 17,500 BTU burners instead of one!
Finally, there’s the power burner. Again, you’ll see 304 stainless steel construction here… Apart from the burner, which is made from cast brass.
In total, you can dish out 70,000 BTUs with this burner… And it will also come with illuminated knobs.
Wondering about the warranty?
Twin Eagles covers their burners for a period of two years.
Prices range from $1,703.41 MSRP to $3,726.14, depending on your selection.
While the warranty from Twin Eagles leaves more to be desired… The quality of their burners are undeniable.
But what if you want the best of both worlds?
Coyote Outdoor Kitchen Burners
Features
Materials: 304 Stainless Steel
Price Range: $734.00 – $1,899.00
Warranty: Lifetime for outdoor burners including frame, housing. 5 years for cooking grid, and 1 year for ignition system.
Last but certainly not least… There’s Coyote Outdoor Living.
Most well-known for offering luxury outdoor appliances at a premium price… Their outdoor kitchen burners are no different!
Similar to Twin Eagles, Coyote keeps their offerings streamlined. They offer a single side burner, double side burner, and power burner. As with nearly all the other brands… Both natural gas and outdoor kitchen propane burners are available.
Starting with the single side burner… This features a 15,000 BTU brass burner and 304 stainless steel construction. There’s also a cover included for protection when not in use!
For the double burner, the story is pretty much the same. Instead, there’s two 15,000 BTU burners with the same construction. Again, a cover is included here as well.
No surprise… The power burner is much the same way! With complete 304 stainless steel construction, this burner has a max heat output of 60,000 BTUs. A stainless steel cover will be included as well.
For the warranty… Coyote doesn’t disappoint! Their outdoor kitchen burners are covered by a lifetime warranty. This includes the frame, housing, and the burners themselves. Cooking grids are covered for 5 years, and the ignition system for one year.
What’s the cost?
Coyote burners range from $734.00 MSRP to $1,889.00 MSRP.
You’ve got a great warranty, high quality materials, and a fair price… But is Coyote the best option?
Who Makes the Best Outdoor Kitchen Burners?
In all truthfulness… None of the above brands make “bad” burners. In fact, most of them are quite good!
However, we would recommend steering away from options that are not made of 304 stainless steel. Otherwise, you’re taking a serious gamble on longevity!
Also skew your attention toward brands that offer a lifetime warranty. This proves they stand behind their product!
If sheer options are what you’re after… Summerset offers plenty to choose from! They offer a great warranty as well. Not all of their burners specify 304 stainless steel construction… So be sure to confirm this upfront.
But if you don’t mind having a few options to choose from… We’d consider Coyote’s outdoor kitchen burners to be one of the best choices!
All three burners come with 304 stainless steel construction… A lifetime warranty… And are reasonably priced!
Really, you can’t go wrong there.
No matter what brand you choose for your outdoor kitchen burners… They’ll need to go somewhere!
The Perfect Pairing for Your Outdoor Kitchen with Burners
What’s the perfect pairing for outdoor burners, you ask?
Why, an outdoor kitchen island of course!
And selecting the right outdoor kitchen is just as important as the burners you choose.
When buying a burner, you need heavy duty materials, a strong warranty… And it needs to be functional.
Well, the same goes for a BBQ island!
Being an investment you hope to last a lifetime… Cutting corners simply won’t work.
That’s where RTA Outdoor Living comes in.
Our DIY solution is the epitome of no compromises.
With high performance concrete panel construction… RTA islands are impervious to termite damage, corrosion, rust, and rot.
We also offer a structural guarantee to ensure your island is made properly the first time. And just for good measure, every island comes backed with a limited lifetime structural warranty.
An RTA outdoor kitchen can be perfectly tailored to your functionality needs. Between our streamlined free online design tool and direct service from a Design Expert… The island of your dreams will be made reality in no time!
We can’t forget where the burners factor into all of this!
Every RTA outdoor kitchen comes complete with premium accessories from Coyote. So if you’ve got your sights set on a Coyote burner… It’s truly the perfect fit!
You’ll also get to decide which grill is the ideal pairing for your burner! Built-in gas grills, pellet grills, charcoal grills, and kamado smokers are always available.
Should you be curious on where to get started… Browse the Learning Hub, create your outdoor kitchen design, and we’ll be in touch!
Need Help With Your Plans?
FAQ
While a side burner is not necessary, it’s certainly extremely useful! If you want to be able to cook side dishes, make sauces, or anything else you would normally cook indoors… A side burner is a must-have!
