Monument Grills 4+2 Burner Propane Gas Grill Review: The Feature-Packed Powerhouse for the Backyard Chef

There’s a moment every aspiring grill master faces. It’s that point when the old, wobbly two-burner grill just doesn’t cut it anymore. For me, that moment came during a family cookout last summer. I was juggling burgers, hot dogs, and a few ears of corn, all while trying to keep a pot of BBQ sauce warm. The limited space was a logistical nightmare, the heat was maddeningly uneven, and I knew I needed an upgrade. The dream wasn’t just a bigger grill, but a true outdoor cooking command center—a station that could sear a perfect steak, gently cook ribs, and simmer a side dish, all at the same time. The search for a grill that offers versatility, power, and premium features without venturing into the four-figure professional price range is a common quest, and it’s what led us to test the Monument Grills 4+2 Burner Propane Gas Grill.

What to Consider Before Buying a Propane Gas Grill

A propane grill is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for creating delicious outdoor meals with convenience and control. Unlike charcoal, propane offers instant, adjustable heat, making it perfect for weeknight dinners and elaborate weekend feasts alike. The main benefits are speed, ease of use, and temperature precision, allowing you to go from zero to sizzling in minutes and maintain consistent heat for perfect results every time. It’s about transforming your patio or deck into a functional and enjoyable extension of your kitchen.

The ideal customer for a large, multi-function grill like this is the home chef who loves to entertain or cook for a family. They face the challenge of limited cooking space and crave the versatility to grill, sear, and prepare side dishes simultaneously. It’s for someone who appreciates features that enhance the experience, like evening grilling or monitoring food without losing heat. However, this type of cabinet-style grill might not be suitable for those with limited outdoor space, such as a small balcony, or for individuals who only grill occasionally for one or two people. For them, a smaller, more portable model might be a better investment.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

  • Dimensions & Space: A grill’s footprint is a primary concern. The Monument Grills 4+2 Burner Propane Gas Grill measures 54 inches wide, so you’ll need ample patio space. Always measure your designated area, ensuring you have at least a few feet of clearance on all sides for safety and maneuverability. Consider not just the grill’s size, but the “working space” you’ll need around it.
  • Capacity/Performance: Look beyond just the number of burners to the total cooking area and BTU output. This grill boasts a massive 723 square inches of total cooking space, which is ample for large parties. The combination of four main burners, a standard side burner, and a dedicated infrared sear burner provides incredible performance flexibility, allowing for both high-heat searing and lower-temperature indirect cooking.
  • Materials & Durability: The longevity of your grill is dictated by its construction. This model features stainless steel construction and porcelain-coated cast iron grates. Cast iron is superior for heat retention and creating beautiful sear marks, while stainless steel offers good resistance to the elements. However, as some user feedback suggests, the quality and grade of stainless steel can vary, impacting its long-term resistance to rust, so proper care and a good cover are essential.
  • Ease of Use & Maintenance: Features that simplify the grilling process are invaluable. We look for reliable electronic ignition, easy-to-read thermometers, and straightforward controls. For maintenance, a slide-out grease tray is a game-changer, making cleanup significantly easier. As one user smartly noted, lining this tray with foil can make an already simple task nearly effortless.

While the Monument Grills 4+2 Burner Propane Gas Grill is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing a Backyard Behemoth

The Monument Grills 4+2 Burner Propane Gas Grill arrives in a formidable, heavy box that immediately signals a substantial piece of equipment. As confirmed by user reports, the packaging is excellent, with components strategically braced and wrapped to minimize the risk of shipping damage—though a few users did report receiving units with minor dents. Laying out all the parts, we were impressed by the feel of the materials. The stainless steel panels have a satisfying weight, and the porcelain-coated cast iron grates are hefty and robust, promising serious heat retention. The vibrant blue finish on the cabinet doors provides a stylish pop of color that sets it apart from the sea of monochrome grills on the market. Assembly is, without a doubt, a project. While some handy users reported finishing in about two hours, we recommend setting aside a solid 3-4 hours, especially if you’re working alone. The instructions rely heavily on diagrams, which are mostly clear, but as one user pointed out, a few steps—like attaching the side burner gas lines—can be tricky for those with larger hands. Once assembled, however, the grill stands tall and proud, looking like it costs significantly more than its actual price tag, especially when you press the button to activate the cool blue LED backlights on the control knobs. You can immediately see its full feature set and user reviews, which often highlight this impressive initial presentation.

What We Like

  • Expansive 723 sq. inch cooking area provides ample space for large meals.
  • Extremely versatile with four main burners, a side burner, and a powerful infrared sear burner.
  • Premium features like LED-illuminated knobs and a Clearview® lid window enhance the user experience.
  • Excellent heat output and retention from the heavy-duty, porcelain-coated cast iron grates.

Potential Drawbacks

  • Assembly can be time-consuming and frustrating for some users.
  • Long-term durability concerns, with several reports of significant rust after 1-2 years.

Deep Dive: Performance Under Fire

A grill’s true worth is only revealed when the burners are lit and the food hits the grates. It’s here, in the crucible of heat and flame, that the Monument Grills 4+2 Burner Propane Gas Grill truly makes its case. We put this grill through a series of rigorous tests, from slow-cooked ribs to flash-seared steaks and delicate vegetables, to see if its performance lives up to its impressive spec sheet. Over several weeks of intensive use, we analyzed its heat dynamics, cooking versatility, and the practical utility of its standout features.

Assembly and Build Quality: A Tale of Two Experiences

Our journey with this grill began, as it does for every owner, with assembly. The consensus from our experience and user feedback is that this is a significant undertaking. The parts are well-organized, and the hardware is clearly labeled, which is a major plus. The diagram-based instructions are adequate, but they demand close attention. As one retired user noted, “Directions pretty good, if you look at diagrams closely.” We found the main cabinet and firebox came together logically, but the process became more intricate when connecting the side burners. The screws underneath are in tight spots, a sentiment echoed by a user who noted, “I can see how some folks had trouble w those especially if you have big hands!” Our assembly took just under three hours with two people taking their time. Once built, the grill feels sturdy. The cabinet doors align well, the lid has a smooth action, and the large, robust caster wheels make it surprisingly easy to move around the patio. The stainless steel finish looks sharp, but this is where the tale diverges. While initially impressive, we noted several user reviews that raise serious flags about long-term durability. Reports of “pitted rust everywhere” and the bottom rusting out after just a couple of years are concerning. This suggests that while the initial build feels solid, the grade of stainless steel used may not be as corrosion-resistant as that found on premium brands. Our recommendation is unequivocal: if you invest in this grill, you must also invest in a high-quality, weatherproof cover and be diligent about cleaning to prolong its life.

Grilling Performance: Power, Precision, and Searing Heat

When it comes to pure cooking power, this grill is an absolute beast. The four main stainless steel burners ignite reliably with the electronic starter and generate intense, even heat across the primary 513-square-inch cooking surface. We wholeheartedly agree with the user who warned, “Don’t turn your back on this grill if you have all 4 burners on, you’ll have a bad time.” It gets hot, and it gets hot fast. The heavy cast iron grates do a phenomenal job of absorbing that heat and laying down thick, restaurant-quality sear marks. We found minimal hot and cold spots, allowing us to utilize the entire grate surface with confidence. One user did note that the lowest setting still holds a temperature of around 400 degrees, which we also observed. This makes it fantastic for searing and general grilling, but those looking for very low, slow smoking temperatures may need to use only one or two burners on low for indirect heat.

The real star of the show, however, is the side burner configuration. On the left, you have a standard burner perfect for warming sauces or sautéing onions. But on the right, you have the infrared side sear burner—a feature typically reserved for much more expensive grills. This thing is a flamethrower in the best possible way. It heats up in seconds and produces a punishingly intense heat that creates a perfect, dark crust on a thick ribeye in under 90 seconds per side. As one owner put it, “The side sear burner is very intense and does a nice job as intended.” This one feature elevates the grill from a simple barbecue to a versatile outdoor steakhouse, a capability that makes this model a standout in its price category.

Usability and Special Features: The Bells and Whistles

Monument Grills packed this unit with features designed to enhance the grilling experience, and for the most part, they succeed. The Clearview® Lid is a fantastic concept, allowing you to check on your food’s progress without lifting the lid and losing precious heat. In our initial tests, it was great for monitoring the browning of chicken or the flare-ups on burgers. However, we must align with the user who found the window “unclean-able after the 2nd use.” Grease and smoke quickly coat the interior of the glass, and it requires aggressive cleaning after every few uses to remain transparent. The blue LED lights behind the control knobs are another premium touch. They aren’t just for show; they are genuinely useful for making precise temperature adjustments during evening or nighttime grilling sessions, providing clear visibility of the dial positions. The built-in thermometer on the lid was reasonably accurate in our tests, though we did see a user report that theirs failed after six months, highlighting potential component inconsistencies. Finally, the cleanup system is well-designed. The large, full-width grease tray slides out easily from the back of the grill, making disposal of drippings a simple and clean process. This ease of maintenance is a significant quality-of-life improvement over older grill designs.

What Other Users Are Saying

Synthesizing the wider user experience reveals a consistent pattern of praise and criticism. On the positive side, many owners are thrilled with the value proposition. One user, after extensive research, stated, “Sturdy, great quality parts (awesome grill grates) and the lights are the icing on the cake… I am sure I made the right one with this purchase.” Another echoed this, saying, “I couldn’t be happier with this grill. Beats the hell out of my last one.” The powerful heat and versatile cooking options, especially the sear burner, are frequently cited as major highlights.

However, the negative feedback is just as consistent and centers on two key issues: assembly and long-term rust. One frustrated user spent over four hours on what they called a “non-intuitive” assembly. The most damning criticism comes from long-term owners. One user provided a stark update after two years: “Pure trash. I’ve had for 2 years. Pitted rust everywhere… You’ll have a rust bucket.” Another shared a similar story with photos, showing their grill’s bottom completely rusted through after less than three years, despite being kept under a cover. These reports are critical for potential buyers to consider; while the initial performance is stellar, the grill’s longevity appears to be highly dependent on climate and diligent maintenance.

How Does the Monument Grills 4+2 Burner Propane Gas Grill Compare to Alternatives?

While the Monument Grills 4+2 Burner Propane Gas Grill is a strong contender for a full-size backyard kitchen, it’s important to understand the alternatives, especially if your needs lean toward portability or a different brand ecosystem.

1. Coleman Fold ‘N Go 6000 BTU Portable Propane Grill

This comparison is less about features and more about function. The Coleman Fold ‘N Go is the epitome of portability. It’s designed for camping, tailgating, or picnics—scenarios where the massive Monument grill is an impossibility. It offers a fraction of the cooking power and space, but its value lies in its compact, foldable design and light weight. If you need a grill for on-the-go cooking, the Coleman is the obvious choice. If you’re looking for a stationary centerpiece for your patio to feed a crowd, the Monument is in a completely different league.

2. Kenmore 3-Burner Propane BBQ Grill

The Kenmore 3-Burner grill is a more direct competitor, occupying a similar space as a mid-size, cabinet-style grill. Its primary difference is scale. With three main burners and no dedicated sear or side burner, it’s a more streamlined and compact option. It’s an excellent choice for someone with slightly less patio space or who doesn’t need the immense cooking capacity and versatility of the Monument. The Kenmore offers a solid, traditional grilling experience from a well-known brand, while the Monument pushes the boundaries by offering more burners and premium features like the infrared sear station and LED lights for a potentially similar price point.

3. Coleman RoadTrip 225 2-Burner Gas Grill

Similar to the Fold ‘N Go, the Coleman RoadTrip 225 prioritizes portability, but with a bit more power and stability. Its stand and wheels make it a fantastic option for serious tailgaters or RV campers who want a more robust cooking experience than a simple tabletop model can provide. It features two adjustable burners for better temperature control. However, it cannot compete with the sheer power, size, and multi-zone cooking capabilities of the Monument Grills 4+2 Burner Propane Gas Grill. The choice here is clear: choose the Coleman for adventure and travel, and choose the Monument for creating a culinary hub in your own backyard.

The Final Verdict: A High-Performance Grill with an Asterisk

After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the Monument Grills 4+2 Burner Propane Gas Grill is one of qualified enthusiasm. This grill delivers an incredible array of features and raw cooking power for its price. The combination of four main burners, a side burner, and a truly effective infrared searing station provides a level of versatility that is hard to find without spending significantly more. Add in the stylish design, LED knobs, and massive cooking area, and you have a recipe for a fantastic backyard centerpiece that can handle anything you throw at it. It is an enthusiast’s grill at a budget-friendly price.

However, that value comes with a significant caveat: potential long-term durability. The numerous and consistent reports of premature rusting cannot be ignored. This grill is for the buyer who wants maximum performance for their dollar and is willing to accept the trade-off of a challenging assembly and the need for meticulous, consistent maintenance and a high-quality cover to protect their investment. If you fit that profile, you will be rewarded with a powerful and versatile cooking machine that will be the envy of your neighbors. If you’re ready to transform your backyard cooking, you can check the latest price and secure your Monument Grill today.