Now Is the Best Time to Buy a Grill! 5 Top Picks

Once upon a time, Labor Day meant the end of summer. But those days are over, and you're now free to wear white and grill out as far into September (and October, and November...) as you please. In fact, it's recommended that you do so, because now is the best time to find deals on grills. Case in point:

Char-Griller Akorn Jr. Kamado Charcoal Grill

Egg-shaped grills are popular for good reason: They heat quickly, and they're excellent at maintaining temperature. If you want to see what all the fuss is about, this is a great entry-level buy. Its 153 square inches of cooking area are perfectly adequate if you're just getting into cooking out, and the grill's compact size is a plus for portability (hence the handles). It also features dual air-flow dampers for precise control and a hinged locking lid for easy access to the coals.

Kenmore 4-Burner Cart Gas Grill

If you're in the market for something a little larger, this Kenmore 4-Burner Cart Gas Grill boasts 644 square inches of cooking space — plenty for a large family. And if, like every person ever to appear on HGTV, you enjoy "entertaining," this grill won't let you down; electric ignition makes getting the party started a literal snap. Other features include porcelain coated cast iron cooking grates and a storage shelf.

Char-Broil Gas2Coal Hybrid Grill

Can't decide if you prefer gas or charcoal? Por que no los dos? This hybrid model allows you to switch from gas to charcoal in under a minute, and you can use the gas burners to get your coals going — no more lighter fluid! It has 420 square inches of primary cooking space plus a 120-square-inch warming rack, so you'll never be short on grate area. Also worth noting: A specially engineered charcoal tray to reduce flare-ups and help it burn more efficiently.

Stok Tourist Portable Convertible Gas Grill

Grilling doesn't have to be something you do only at home! The Stok Tourist, at only 10 lbs., can accompany you anywhere. (Probably, like, a doctor's appointment isn't the best place to take it, but maybe a campsite? Or tailgating?) At under $30, it's also crazy cheap. As far as features, it has 104 square inches of grilling space, collapsible legs, and perhaps best of all, a piezo igniter (a.k.a what they use in potato cannons).

Cal Flame 7-Foot BBQ Island with 4-Burner Gas Grill

Ready for the big leagues? Witness the glory of this Cal Flame BBQ Island. With a whopping 800 square inches of cooking surface, commercial-grade stainless steel construction, and a cultured stone surround, it's proof positive that your grill game is strong. And why wouldn't it be, when you can ignite each burner individually? Other nice attributes: Porcelain countertops and an umbrella hole, so you can get your burgers made in the shade.