Gas grills remain a top choice for outdoor cooking in Austin and across the US, delivering convenience, precise temperature control, and flavorful results without the hassle of charcoal startup times. Sunstone Metal Products (visit sunstonemp.com for the full lineup, specs, and current pricing) stands out as a premium brand specializing in all-304 stainless steel construction, high-BTU performance, innovative features like Pro Sear grids and infrared burners, and versatile hybrid designs that blend gas with charcoal/wood for the best of both worlds.
Whether you're upgrading your backyard setup for family cookouts, tailgates, or entertaining, choosing the right Sunstone gas grill means balancing size, fuel type (propane vs. natural gas), heat output, burners, materials, and extras like rotisseries or charcoal lifts. This expanded guide covers everything—from core buying factors to a detailed comparison of Sunstone's flagship lines—to help you decide. All info draws from official details on sunstonemp.com.
Fuel Type
Size & Cooking Area Measure your space (built-in cutouts or freestanding). Larger surfaces (e.g., 600–900+ sq in) suit big groups; compact 24–30" models fit smaller patios.
Heat Output (BTUs) Higher BTUs = faster heating and better searing. Look for 50,000–80,000+ BTUs on main burners; IR add-ons push searing to 800°F+.
Burners & Zones Multiple independent burners allow direct/indirect cooking. Hybrids add charcoal drawers with lifts for adjustable heat/smoke.
Materials & Grids 304 stainless steel dominates for durability. Pro Sear grids excel at even heat and marks; non-stick options on griddles.
Features Side burners, rotisseries, IR sear zones, LED lighting, warming racks, and hybrid charcoal lifts for multi-fuel cooking.
Maintenance & Price Easy-clean stainless; hybrids require charcoal ash management. Prices range from mid-premium ($1,500–$4,000+)—invest in quality for longevity.
Here's a side-by-side look at popular Sunstone models (based on current offerings at sunstonemp.com—check site for latest specs/pricing as models evolve).
| Model/Series | Size (Width) | Burners & BTUs (Main) | Key Features | Fuel Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ruby Series (Pure Gas) | 30" (3-burner) | 45,000–60,000 BTU I-burners | Pro Sear grid, variable rod spacing, LED controls, IR option, all-304 SS | Propane or NG | Everyday high-heat grilling, searing steaks |
| Ruby Series | 36" (4-burner) | Up to 80,000 BTU I-burners | Pro Sear thermal grid (700–800°F sear), flame-thrower ignition, rotisserie ready | Propane or NG | Families/large groups, pro-level results |
| Ruby Series | 42" (5-burner) | 75,000+ BTU + IR sear | Max cooking area, IR back burner, spill-away grid, LED lighting | Propane or NG | Entertaining, ultimate versatility |
| Hybrid Series (Gas + Charcoal/Wood) | 30" | 30,000 BTU dual gas + 15,000 BTU IR | Single-zone height-adjustable charcoal/wood tray (lift system), spring-assisted hood, multi-fuel | Propane (NG conv.) | Gas convenience + authentic charcoal smoke |
| Hybrid Series | 42" | 35,000 BTU dual gas | Dual-zone adjustable burn trays/lifts, removable drawers, IR options | Propane or NG | Advanced users wanting zones for gas/charcoal/wood |
| Power Cirque (Burner/Griddle Focus) | 24" | Up to 65,000 BTU triple Cirque | 19" solid steel griddle, non-stick, oil pan, high-BTU for griddling/searing | Propane or NG | Breakfast, smash burgers, teppanyaki-style |
Ruby Series: The Premium Pure Gas Choice
The Ruby line is Sunstone's flagship for dedicated gas grilling. Built with fabricated I-burners and the exclusive Pro Sear grid, these deliver rapid, even heat and pro sear marks. Ideal if you want consistent performance without charcoal management—perfect for steaks, burgers, and veggies. Models scale from 30" (compact) to 42" (max capacity).
Sunstone's hybrid models (e.g., 30" SUNCHZ30 and 42" EMCHDZ42) feature gas burners below plus height-adjustable charcoal/wood trays (lifts/drawers) for easy fuel swaps. Light charcoal with gas ignition, adjust tray height for heat control, or use gas alone. This gives authentic smoky flavor without a separate charcoal grill—great for low-and-slow BBQ or hybrid cooks (sear on gas, smoke on charcoal). The lift system makes ash removal and adjustments simple.
Research your space, cooking style, and budget, then compare hands-on. Ready for recipes tailored to your Sunstone model, installation tips, or accessory ideas? Let me know your preferred series! 🔥🍖