Best Grill Grates Under $100: 3 Spec-Based Picks

Quick picks

The best fit for you

• You own a Weber Genesis II 300 series grill Charbrofire Genesis II E-310 Cast Iron Grates These 18.75 by 26.5 inch cast iron grates fit Genesis II models from 2017 onward.
• You need more indirect heat space on your Kamado Onlyfire 24-Inch Cooking Grate and Deflector System This 7.41 pound stainless steel grate expands cooking surface for the 24 inch Kamado Joe Big Joe.
• You want durable stainless steel with easy charcoal access PK Grills Hinged 304 Stainless Steel Grate This 21.5 by 14.2 inch hinged grate allows convenient charcoal management for compatible PK models.

Our 3 picks

1 Best overall

Charbrofire Genesis II E-310 Cast Iron Grates

Best for: Weber Genesis II 300 series owners

Material

Matte enamel cast iron

Dimensions

13 1/4 x 18 3/4 inches per grate

Grate Type

Cooking grate

Finish

Matte enamel

Piece Count

2

View on Amazon: Charbrofire Genesis II E-310 Cast Iron Grates Affiliate link

These replacement grates are designed for Weber Genesis II 300 series gas grills from 2017 onward. They feature matte enamel cast iron construction with solid rods measuring 13.25 inches by 18.75 inches each. The set includes two grates totaling 26.5 inches by 18.75 inches. This material provides high heat retention and even distribution. You get a durable cooking surface that matches original Weber part numbers like 66095 and 66795.

Pros

• Made from matte enamel cast iron for durability
• Includes two grates measuring 26.5 x 18.75 inches total
• Compatible with Weber Genesis II 300 series (2017-current)
• Matches original Weber part numbers 66095 and 66795

Cons

• Limited to Weber Genesis II 300 series compatibility
• Does not fit earlier Genesis models without the II designation
• No included cleaning tools or protective covers

Good fit if

• You own a Weber Genesis II E-310 or similar 300 series grill
• You need replacement grates for a 2017 or newer model
• You prefer cast iron for better heat retention

Skip if

• You have a Genesis model from before 2017
• You own a Weber Spirit or Genesis 400 series
• You need grates for a non-Weber grill brand

Verdict: Charbrofire Genesis II E-310 Cast Iron Grates provide a direct replacement for specific Weber models. You should buy these if you need exact fitment for a Genesis II 300 series grill made after 2016.

2 Best premium

Onlyfire 24-Inch Cooking Grate and Deflector System

Best for: expanding Kamado Joe Big Joe cooking space

Compatible Grill

Kamado Joe Big Joe 24-inch

Material

Stainless steel

Grate Type

Cooking grate

Shape

Half-moon

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Weight

7.41 pounds

View on Amazon: Onlyfire 24-Inch Cooking Grate and Deflector System Affiliate link

This Onlyfire system includes two half-moon stainless steel grates and two heat deflectors for 24-inch Kamado Joe Big Joe grills. The base rack sits on original tabs to prevent spinning. It expands your cooking surface by up to 250% and separates food from coals. The stainless steel build ensures durability. You get a stable setup for direct and indirect cooking without sacrificing grilled flavor.

Pros

• Stainless steel construction for durability
• Includes two heat deflectors for indirect cooking
• Base rack tabs prevent spinning
• Expands cooking surface up to 250%

Cons

• Only fits 24-inch Kamado Joe Big Joe
• Half-moon shape limits full-circle grilling
• No app or remote control included

Good fit if

• You own a 24-inch Kamado Joe Big Joe
• You want to expand cooking space
• You need indirect heat zones

Skip if

• You have a different grill size
• You need full circular grates
• You want smart connectivity

Verdict: Onlyfire Kamado Joe 24" Cooking Grate offers a stable, expandable cooking surface for Big Joe owners. It fits users who need indirect heat zones and more space.

3 Best budget

PK Grills Hinged 304 Stainless Steel Grate

Best for: PK grill owners needing hinged charcoal access

Compatible Grill

PK Grills (1997-2020)

Material

304 stainless steel

Dimensions

14.2"D x 21.75"W x 0.2"H

Grate Type

Cooking grate

Weight

4.6 pounds

View on Amazon: PK Grills Hinged 304 Stainless Steel Grate Affiliate link

This PK Grills cooking grate replaces the stock nickel-steel grid on models from 1997 to 2020. It is made from heavy-gauge 304 stainless steel and measures 21.5 inches wide by 14.2 inches deep. The hinged design lets you lift one side to manage charcoal without disturbing food. You get a durable, corrosion-resistant surface that is easy to clean and backed by a 3-year warranty.

Pros

• Constructed from durable 304 stainless steel
• Hinged design allows easy charcoal management
• Fits PK grills from 1997 to 2020
• Includes a 3-year warranty

Cons

• Limited to specific PK grill models
• Not compatible with PK300 or PK300AF grills
• Requires manual measurement for pre-1997 models

Good fit if

• You own a PK grill made between 1997 and 2020
• You want a hinged grate for easier charcoal access
• You prefer stainless steel over nickel-steel

Skip if

• You have a PK300 or PK300AF grill
• You need a grate for grills made before 1997
• You want a universal fit for multiple grill brands

Verdict: PK Grills Stainless Steel Hinged Grate is a solid upgrade for owners of compatible PK models who value easy charcoal management. It offers a durable stainless steel surface and a convenient hinge mechanism for better cooking control.

Specifications side by side

How to Choose the Right Grill Grate

1. Check Exact Dimensions

   You must verify the width and length of your current grate before purchasing a replacement. The Charbrofire Genesis II grates measure 18.75 by 26.5 inches, which fits Weber Genesis II 300 series models made after 2016. If your grill requires a different size, this specific grate will not fit. Always measure your existing grate or consult your grill manual to ensure the new grate aligns with your burner and frame. Mismatched dimensions can lead to poor heat distribution or installation issues.

2. Select the Right Material

   The material of the grate affects heat retention and durability. Cast iron, like the Charbrofire option, provides excellent heat retention but requires seasoning to prevent rust. Stainless steel, such as the Onlyfire and PK Grills options, offers superior corrosion resistance and requires less maintenance. The Onlyfire grate is made of stainless steel for the Kamado Joe Big Joe, while the PK Grills grate uses 304 stainless steel. Choose stainless steel if you want low maintenance, or cast iron if you prefer better searing capabilities and do not mind upkeep.

3. Verify Grill Compatibility

   Grill grates are often model-specific. The Charbrofire grates are designed specifically for Weber Genesis II 300 series models, including models 66095, 66795, and 66685. The Onlyfire grate is tailored for the 24-inch Kamado Joe Big Joe. The PK Grills grate is compatible with specific PK grill models. Buying a grate for the wrong grill type will result in a poor fit. Check the product specifications against your grill's model number to ensure a secure and proper fit before making a purchase.

4. Consider Weight and Stability

   The weight of the grate influences its stability and heat retention. Heavier grates like the Onlyfire option, which weighs 7.41 pounds, tend to stay in place better and retain heat longer. The PK Grills grate weighs 4.6 pounds, offering a lighter alternative. A heavier grate can handle higher temperatures without warping. Consider the weight if you plan to cook heavy items or use high heat. Lighter grates may be easier to handle but might require more careful placement to ensure they remain stable during cooking.

5. Look for Special Features

   Some grates include features that enhance cooking control. The PK Grills grate features a hinged design, allowing you to access the charcoal below without removing the grate. This is useful for adjusting heat zones or adding charcoal during long cooks. The Onlyfire grate includes a deflector system, which helps create indirect heat zones. These features add functionality beyond basic grilling. Evaluate whether you need easy charcoal access or the ability to create specific heat zones when choosing between standard and feature-rich grate options.

Frequently asked questions

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