At some point, every backyard griller outgrows the starter grill and starts craving something more capable. You want more heat, more control, more steel, and fewer excuses for mediocre burgers.
That’s where this matchup comes in – a true battle of the propane gas giants.
On one side, we have the Monument Grills Mesa 415BZ, a stainless-clad, feature-packed grill that looks like it wants to impress your neighbors.
On the other, the Broil King Monarch, a no-nonsense workhorse with a cult following among pitmasters who care more about performance than flash.
I’ve cooked on grills like these long enough to know: spec sheets lie, but steaks don’t. So let’s break this down like a pitmaster would – honestly, practically, and with just enough personality to keep things interesting.
Quick Comparison Snapshot
If you want the short version before we dive deep, here it is:
Monument Mesa 415BZ
- Bigger cooking space
- Stainless steel aesthetic
- Feature-forward design
- Great for families and frequent entertaining
Broil King Monarch
- Exceptional heat retention
- Cast iron cooking surface
- Built like it was designed by someone who grills year-round
- Ideal for serious cooks who value consistency
Both are propane gas giants, but they approach domination very differently.
Meet the Brands: Who’s Behind the Fire
Monument Grills
Monument Grills has made a name for itself by delivering premium-looking grills at competitive prices. They focus heavily on modern design, stainless steel finishes, and convenience features that appeal to homeowners upgrading from entry-level models.
Think of Monument as the grill equivalent of a well-dressed UFC fighter – looks sharp, hits hard, and surprises people who underestimate it.
Broil King
Broil King is old-school in the best way. This brand has been around forever, and their grills are designed by people who actually cook on them – a lot.
Broil King grills prioritize heat control, durability, and cooking performance over flashy extras. If Monument is Robocop (sleek, shiny, efficient), Broil King is Rambo – fewer buttons, more raw power, and absolutely not afraid of fire.
Deep Dive: Monument Grills Mesa 415BZ
First Impressions
Right out of the box, the Mesa 415BZ makes a statement. The stainless steel body, clean lines, and solid weight let you know this isn’t a bargain-bin grill pretending to be something else.
Assembly is straightforward. You won’t need an engineering degree or the patience of Naomi Bishop explaining hedge fund ethics – just a bit of time and a socket wrench.
Key Features That Matter
The Mesa 415BZ comes equipped with:
- 4 main burners delivering strong, even heat
- A generous primary cooking area, great for feeding a crowd
- Porcelain-coated cast iron grates for solid heat retention
- A side burner for sauces, veggies, or emergency bacon
What stands out is how user-friendly everything feels. Knobs are responsive, ignition is reliable, and heat control is intuitive.
Build Quality & Durability
While the exterior stainless steel looks premium, Monument balances cost by mixing materials under the hood. That’s not a knock – it’s smart engineering.
The grill feels sturdy, the lid has good weight, and the cart design is stable. With proper care and a cover, this grill will hold up well over time.
Cooking Performance
This is where the Mesa 415BZ really earns its keep.
- Heat-up time is fast
- Heat distribution is impressively even
- Searing performance is strong enough for steakhouse-style crusts
It’s not a flamethrower, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s controlled, predictable, and forgiving – ideal for weeknight cooks and weekend parties alike.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Large cooking surface
- Sleek stainless look
- Easy to use
- Excellent value for the size
Cons
- Stainless is more cosmetic than structural
- Not the heaviest-duty grill in its class
Deep Dive: Broil King Monarch
First Impressions
The Monarch doesn’t try to win a beauty contest. It looks serious. Purpose-built. Like it expects to get dirty.
Assembly is simple, and everything fits together tightly – no wobble, no rattles.
Key Features That Matter
The Monarch focuses on fewer, better-executed features:
- Powerful burners paired with Broil King’s Flav-R-Wave system
- Heavy cast iron cooking grates
- Compact but efficient cooking area
- Excellent grease management
This grill is engineered for flavor and heat efficiency, not showroom appeal.
Build Quality & Longevity
This is where Broil King flexes.
The materials feel thick. The lid seals tightly. The firebox holds heat like a cast iron pan that’s been seasoned for 20 years. This grill is built for people who grill through fall, winter, and questionable life choices.
Cooking Performance
If Monument is smooth and forgiving, the Monarch is precise and powerful.
- Outstanding heat retention
- Exceptional searing capability
- Consistent temperatures across the cooking surface
This grill rewards skill. It’s not hard to use, but it shines brightest in experienced hands.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Incredible heat retention
- Cast iron excellence
- Built to last
Cons
- Smaller cooking space
- Less visually flashy
Head-to-Head: Propane Gas Giants Collide
Design & Build
- Monument wins on looks
- Broil King wins on raw durability
Cooking Performance
- Monument excels at even, forgiving cooking
- Broil King dominates high-heat searing and consistency
Ease of Use
- Monument feels more beginner-friendly
- Broil King feels more professional-grade
Cleaning & Maintenance
Both are easy to clean, but Broil King’s grease system is slightly more efficient.
Value for Money
Both deliver excellent value – just in different ways.
Real-World Cooking Scenarios
- Steaks: Broil King gets the edge with superior searing
- Burgers & hot dogs for a crowd: Monument’s larger surface wins
- Weeknight grilling: Monument’s ease of use shines
- Weekend grill sessions: Broil King rewards patience and skill
If Robocop were hosting a backyard cookout, he’d choose the Monument for efficiency. Rambo would grab the Broil King, light it with one hand, and scare the neighbors. Naomi Bishop would analyze ROI and quietly approve both.
Heat Control: Where Good Grills Become Great Grills
Raw power gets attention, but heat control wins cookouts. This is the point where many grills reveal whether they’re tools or toys. True propane gas giants don’t just get hot — they let you decide where and how that heat works.
Good heat control means you can:
- Sear steaks on one side
- Gently finish chicken without burning skin
- Hold steady temps for indirect cooking
On the Monument Mesa 415BZ, burner spacing and responsive knobs make zone cooking feel natural. You can dial things in without fighting flare-ups.
The Broil King Monarch takes a slightly different approach, relying on heat retention and internal design to maintain consistency once you set it.
From a pitmaster’s perspective, this is the difference between reacting to fire and commanding it. One makes you feel lucky. The other makes you feel skilled.
Searing Isn’t Everything – But It Still Matters
Everyone talks about searing like it’s the only metric that matters. It’s important, sure – but it’s not the whole story. A grill that sears well but can’t back off the heat is like Rambo without a plan: impressive, loud, and occasionally destructive.
Strong propane gas giants strike a balance:
- High heat for crust development
- Controlled flame for finishing
- Even temperatures across the grate
The Broil King Monarch leans into intense, focused heat, making it a steak lover’s dream. The Monument Mesa 415BZ delivers a slightly more forgiving sear, which is often better for mixed cooking sessions where steaks share space with veggies and chicken.
The real win? A grill that lets you choose aggression or restraint. Because sometimes you want a hard sear – and sometimes you just don’t want to burn dinner.
Lid Design and Heat Retention: The Silent Game-Changer
Most buyers overlook the lid. Pitmasters don’t. The lid is where heat retention, convection, and consistency quietly live or die.
A well-designed lid:
- Traps heat evenly
- Prevents hot spots
- Improves fuel efficiency
The Broil King Monarch’s heavier lid and tight seal make it excellent for maintaining steady internal temperatures. Once it’s hot, it stays hot – like Robocop guarding a crime scene, unmoved and efficient.
The Monument’s lid is slightly lighter but still well-shaped, promoting good airflow and faster recovery after flipping food.
This matters most when:
- Cooking thicker cuts
- Using indirect heat
- Grilling in windy or cooler conditions
A strong lid turns grilling into controlled cooking, not flame wrangling.
The Role of Side Burners: Luxury or Legit Tool?
Side burners often get dismissed as gimmicks, but when used right, they’re incredibly practical.
The key question isn’t “Do I need one?” – it’s “Will I actually use it?”
Side burners shine for:
- Simmering sauces
- Sautéing vegetables
- Boiling corn or potatoes
On grills like the Monument Mesa 415BZ, the side burner feels thoughtfully integrated – not an afterthought bolted on for marketing. It keeps you outside and engaged instead of running back and forth to the kitchen.
From a pitmaster’s view, side burners don’t make you better at grilling – they make you more efficient. And efficiency means hotter food, better timing, and fewer cold plates hitting the table.
Longevity vs. Looks: What Really Ages Well
Stainless steel turns heads. Heavy construction wins wars. Over time, every grill tells a story – through warped grates, loose knobs, and burners that either hold strong or quietly quit.
This is where propane gas giants separate into two camps:
- Style-forward grills that look great early
- Performance-forward grills that age gracefully
The Monument Mesa 415BZ emphasizes modern appearance and smart value engineering. With care, it holds up well. The Broil King Monarch prioritizes thickness, heat tolerance, and long-term abuse resistance.
As a pitmaster, I’ll say this plainly:
A grill doesn’t need to stay pretty forever. It needs to keep cooking well.
Scratches fade. Heat performance shouldn’t.
How to Choose Between These Propane Gas Giants
Choose the Monument Mesa 415BZ if:
- You grill for family and friends often
- You want space and convenience
- You appreciate modern design
Choose the Broil King Monarch if:
- You care deeply about heat control
- You cook year-round
- You value performance over polish
Alternatives That Are Just as Good as These Two Propane Gas Grills
1. Z GRILLS ZPG‑450A2 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker – All-in-One Pellet BBQ with PID Control
For backyard chefs who want set-and-forget grilling plus smoking versatility, this pellet grill is a serious contender.
Pellet grills shine by marrying the convenience of gas with the rich, smoky flavor profile usually reserved for charcoal – and this Z GRILLS unit delivers both without demanding rocket science skills.
Why this is worth your attention
- PID temperature controller keeps heat within a tight range – perfect for long cooks like brisket or whole chickens without babysitting the fire.
- Wood pellet fuel infuses natural smoky flavor, a step above what propane typically delivers and perfect for low-and-slow BBQ sessions.
- Spacious ~459 sq. in. cooking area handles family dinners and weekend feasts alike.
- Great “set it and forget it” performance – load pellets, dial in temp, and let the grill do the thinking.
Real-world pitmaster perks
- Unlike gas, you get that true BBQ smoke flavor throughout your cook.
- PID control means less temperature fluctuation, so ribs come out consistently tender.
- Cleanup is minimal compared to traditional charcoal.
Downsides / tradeoffs
- Pellet grills take longer to heat up than propane – so they’re less ideal for quick weeknight burgers.
- Max sear heat may not rival the direct flame of propane giants.
- Requires electricity to run auger and controller.
Great for you if… you love smoking, slow-roasting, and impressing guests with flavor without fuss.
2. Weber Original Kettle Charcoal Grill – Classic Charcoal BBQ Experience
If you want pure fire and flavor simplicity, it’s hard to beat the charcoal experience. Enter the Weber Original Kettle – a timeless choice that’s launched a thousand backyard epics and braved hailstorms braver than Robocop’s armor.
Why this still matters
- Charcoal heat equals flavor. Charcoal burns hotter and imparts a distinct BBQ character that gas grills struggle to mimic.
- Simple design, powerful results. A domed lid and vent system lets you control airflow like a pro – spin up heat fast or dial in a long smoke.
- Pretty compact (around 363 sq. in. cooking area) but enough for family meals, backyard parties, and steak night with neighbors.
Flavor bonuses
- Nothing beats charcoal and wood chunks for real smoke essence.
- Adjustable vents give you an intuitive way to get low-and-slow or hot-and-fast with one unit.
A few honest drawbacks
- Charcoal requires more time to light and stabilize – not the “flip a knob and go” convenience of propane.
- Ash cleanup can be messy if you don’t stay on top of it.
- No built-in ignition or temperature readout, so you’re relying on feel and practice.
Great for you if… you want BBQ that tastes like it came from a backyard pit – smokier, richer, and more “campfire-legend” than your propane gas giants.
3. Pit Boss Portable Battery Powered Wood Pellet Grill – Compact Pellet Grill for Flavor with Mobility
For grillers who want wood-fired flavor on the go, this portable pellet grill blends adventurous spirit with serious BBQ chops. Think of it as the grill that goes camping with you – but still cooks like the big rigs back home.
Standout features
- Compact pellet system brings naturally smoky flavor into a mobile package – perfect for tailgates, trips, or small patios.
- Battery-powered auger and controller means you’re not tied down to an outlet, a major win if your nearest socket is miles away.
- Pellet grills can handle everything from low-and-slow brisket to quick hot-and-fast steaks, all with better flavor depth than propane alone.
Pitmaster perks
- Inherent wood flavor gives food more personality – imagine smoking salmon over cherry wood at a weekend getaway.
- Easy pellet feeding means cooks stay steady and controlled, with minimal temperature swings and less resupply stress than traditional charcoal.
Downsides
- Small cooking area means you’ll be cooking in batches for larger crowds.
- Pellet grills still require warm-up time, so they’re not quite as spontaneous as a propane twist-and-go.
- Battery reliance is convenient but means keeping an eye on charge for long cooks.
Great for you if… you want pellet-style flavor without sacrificing portability – and you’re okay with a smaller surface and planning your cooks a bit ahead.
Quick Flavor Comparison (Fun Pitmaster Insight)
- Pellet grills like the Z GRILLS or Pit Boss bring a wood-smoke depth – think “slow Sunday BBQ” vs propane’s “quick Thursday dinner.”
- Charcoal classics like the Weber Kettle are raw fire – unpredictable at first, but once you master it, it’s like composing a symphony with embers and air.
These picks are not just replacements. They are different paths to better backyard BBQ, each with strengths that propane gas giants can struggle to match – especially when you crave flavor character, versatility, or mobility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are propane gas giants still worth buying in 2026?
Absolutely. Propane gas giants remain one of the best options for people who want fast heat, consistent results, and low maintenance. They’re ideal for weeknight grilling, family meals, and anyone who doesn’t want to wait 30 minutes for charcoal to stabilize.
While pellet and charcoal grills bring more smoke flavor, propane still wins on convenience and reliability.
Do pellet grills really taste better than propane?
“Better” depends on what you value. Pellet grills deliver a subtle, real wood-smoke flavor that propane can’t naturally produce. That said, propane grills shine for clean flavors, high-heat searing, and speed.
If you’re cooking burgers, steaks, or hot dogs often, propane keeps things simple. If ribs and brisket are your passion projects, pellets pull ahead.
Which grill type is easiest for beginners?
Propane grills are hands-down the easiest starting point. Turn a knob, ignite, cook. Pellet grills are a close second thanks to digital controllers, but they still require pellet management and electricity.
Charcoal grills offer the most flavor control – and the steepest learning curve. Great results, but expect trial, error, and a few over-smoked dinners.
Can charcoal grills replace propane gas grills completely?
They can, but not for everyone. Charcoal grills excel at flavor and high heat, but they demand more time and attention. If you grill frequently and value speed, propane remains more practical.
Many seasoned pitmasters keep both – propane for convenience, charcoal for flavor-driven weekends.
Which grill type is best for searing steaks?
Charcoal and high-quality propane grills both excel here. Charcoal reaches extremely high temperatures and adds smoke flavor. Propane gas giants offer controlled, repeatable sears without flare-up drama.
Pellet grills can sear, but they’re better suited for indirect cooking unless paired with a sear plate or open-flame design.
Are portable pellet grills powerful enough for real BBQ?
Yes – within reason. Portable pellet grills deliver authentic wood-fired flavor, but their smaller size limits cooking volume and heat recovery. They’re fantastic for tailgating, camping, or small households. For feeding a crowd, full-size grills still rule the backyard.
Which grill requires the least cleanup?
Propane grills are the easiest to clean overall. Pellet grills come next, with ash limited to a small burn pot. Charcoal grills require the most cleanup due to ash and leftover coals. If maintenance matters to you, propane is still king.
What’s the best “one-grill” solution if I can only choose one?
If versatility matters most, a high-quality propane gas grill is still the safest bet. It handles everyday cooking, large groups, and quick meals better than any other category. Pellet and charcoal grills shine as specialists, but propane remains the best all-around workhorse.
Final Verdict: Which Propane Gas Giant Wins?
There’s no universal winner here – and that’s a good thing.
The Monument Grills Mesa 415BZ is the better choice for most households. It’s versatile, approachable, and looks fantastic on the patio.
The Broil King Monarch is the better grill for serious pitmasters who want uncompromising heat and durability.
Either way, you’re not just buying a grill – you’re investing in better food, better gatherings, and fewer excuses for overcooked chicken.
And that, my friends, is what backyard grilling is all about.
Featured image credit: Google Gemini
