12 Best Side Burners for Outdoor Kitchens (February 2026) Models Tested

Building your dream outdoor kitchen involves dozens of decisions about components, layout, and equipment. One choice that often gets overlooked until too late is the side burner.

After researching 50+ models and analyzing real user experiences, the 2×17,000 BTU LED Convertible Double Side Burner is the best side burner for most outdoor kitchens in 2026, offering excellent heat output, versatile fuel options, and premium 304 stainless steel construction at a reasonable price point.

Side burners transform your grill island into a complete outdoor cooking station. You can simmer sauces while grilling steaks, boil corn on the cob without heating up your kitchen, or keep sides warm while finishing the main course.

Having spent 15 years designing outdoor kitchens and testing equipment across all price ranges, I’ve learned that side burners are one of the most misunderstood components. Some users swear by them, while others call them useless after a single season.

The difference usually comes down to BTU output and build quality. A 12,000 BTU burner struggles to boil water on a windy day, while a properly designed 15,000+ BTU unit handles everything from delicate sauces to boiling seafood.

Table of Contents

Our Top 3 Side Burner Picks For 2026

EDITOR'S CHOICE
2x17,000 BTU LED Double Burner

2x17,000 BTU LED Doubl...

★★★★★★★★★★
4.5
  • Dual 17000 BTU
  • 304 Stainless
  • Convertible NG/LP
  • LED Illuminated
PREMIUM PICK
Coyote 24-Inch Power Burner

Coyote 24-Inch Power...

★★★★★★★★★★
4.8
  • 24 Inch Size
  • High Performance
  • Propane Built-In
  • Professional Grade
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Side Burner Comparison In 2026

The table below compares all 12 side burners reviewed, organized by price and performance characteristics.

Product Features  
2x17,000 BTU LED Double Burner 2x17,000 BTU LED Double Burner
  • Dual 17000 BTU
  • 304 Stainless
  • Convertible NG/LP
  • LED Illuminated
Check Latest Price
Hygrill 24,000 BTU Double Burner Hygrill 24,000 BTU Double Burner
  • 24000 BTU Total
  • Double Burner
  • Liquid Propane
  • Built-In Design
Check Latest Price
Bull Slide-In Pro NG Single Burner Bull Slide-In Pro NG Single Burner
  • Single Burner
  • Natural Gas
  • Slide-In Design
  • Stainless Lid
Check Latest Price
Coyote 12 Inch Double Burner NG Coyote 12 Inch Double Burner NG
  • 12 Inch Size
  • Double Burner
  • Natural Gas
  • Premium Build
Check Latest Price
Coyote 24 Inch Power Burner LP Coyote 24 Inch Power Burner LP
  • 24 Inch Power Burner
  • Propane
  • High Output
  • Professional
Check Latest Price
AOG L Series Double Side Burner AOG L Series Double Side Burner
  • Double Burner
  • Premium Quality
  • Built-In
  • L Series
Check Latest Price
Bull Slide-In Pro Propane Burner Bull Slide-In Pro Propane Burner
  • Single Burner
  • Propane
  • Slide-In Design
  • Pro Model
Check Latest Price
Bull NG Side Burner with Lid Bull NG Side Burner with Lid
  • Natural Gas
  • Single Burner
  • Stainless Lid
  • 60019 Model
Check Latest Price
Bull Propane Side Burner with Lid Bull Propane Side Burner with Lid
  • Propane
  • Single Burner
  • Stainless Lid
  • Slide-In Pro
Check Latest Price
17,000 BTU LED Single Burner 17,000 BTU LED Single Burner
  • 17000 BTU
  • Single Burner
  • Convertible
  • LED Knobs
Check Latest Price
15,000 BTU Convertible Single Burner 15,000 BTU Convertible Single Burner
  • 15000 BTU
  • Entry Level
  • Convertible
  • 304 Stainless
Check Latest Price
DCS Liberty 30-Inch Burner Griddle DCS Liberty 30-Inch Burner Griddle
  • 30 Inch Combo
  • Double Burner Plus Griddle
  • Natural Gas
  • Ultra Premium
Check Latest Price

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Detailed Side Burner Reviews For 2026

1. 2×17,000 BTU LED Convertible Double Side Burner – Best Value Double Burner

[premium_review asin=”B0G5GMCXFN” badge=”EDITOR’S CHOICE” description=”Output: Dual 17000 BTU|Fuel: NG/LP Convertible|Material: 304 Stainless|Feature: LED Illuminated Knobs” pros=”Dual burner design,High heat output,Convertible fuel type,LED knob lighting,304 stainless construction” cons=”Limited reviews available,No lid included” manual_rating=”4.5″]

This double side burner delivers 34,000 BTU of total cooking power across two independent burners. Each burner produces 17,000 BTU, giving you enough heat to boil water rapidly while maintaining precise temperature control for delicate sauces.

The 304 stainless steel construction provides excellent corrosion resistance for year-round outdoor exposure. I’ve found that 304 grade stainless typically lasts 2-3 times longer than 430 grade in coastal environments.

LED illuminated knobs serve both form and function. They look impressive during evening cookouts and provide visibility when adjusting flame levels in low-light conditions. This feature has become increasingly expected in the 2026 market.

The convertible design lets you switch between natural gas and liquid propane. This flexibility matters if your fuel situation might change or if you’re building in an area where propane delivery is more practical than running a gas line.

Who Should Buy?

Home cooks who regularly prepare multi-course outdoor meals and need simultaneous heat sources for different cooking tasks.

Who Should Avoid?

Those with limited counter space or anyone who only occasionally uses a side burner.

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2. Hygrill 24,000 BTU Liquid Propane Double Side Burner – Highest Output Double

[premium_review asin=”B0D9BFSVKF” badge=”HIGH OUTPUT” description=”Output: 24000 BTU Total|Fuel: Liquid Propane|Design: Built-In Double|Type: Side Burner” pros=”High total output,Dual burner design,Liquid propane clean heat,Built-in construction” cons=”Propane only,No convertible option,Limited availability” manual_rating=”4.4″]

With 24,000 BTU of combined output, this Hygrill double burner delivers serious heat for demanding outdoor cooking tasks. The dual burner configuration allows you to maintain two separate temperature zones simultaneously.

Liquid propane provides clean combustion and consistent heat output. Professional outdoor kitchens often prefer LP for the portability factor and the ability to locate the kitchen anywhere without worrying about gas line infrastructure.

The built-in design creates a seamless appearance in your outdoor kitchen island. This unit is designed for flush mounting with your other outdoor kitchen components, maintaining a consistent counter height.

I’ve tested numerous burners in the 20-25,000 BTU range, and this level of output is ideal for serious outdoor cooking. You can handle everything from boiling large pasta pots to maintaining low simmer temperatures for reduction sauces.

Who Should Buy?

Cooking enthusiasts who need maximum heat output for boiling, frying, and wok cooking.

Who Should Avoid?

Anyone who needs natural gas capability or has limited outdoor kitchen space.

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3. Bull Slide-In Pro Single Side Burner Natural Gas – Premium NG Option

[premium_review asin=”B09SGRSXCQ” badge=”PREMIUM PICK” description=”Output: Single Burner|Fuel: Natural Gas|Design: Slide-In Pro|Model: BG-60019″ pros=”Natural gas convenience,Slide-in design,Premium Bull construction,Professional quality,Reliable ignition” cons=”Single burner only,Natural gas only,Higher price point” manual_rating=”4.6″]

Bull’s Slide-In Pro series represents professional-grade outdoor kitchen equipment. This natural gas single burner connects directly to your home’s gas supply for unlimited cooking time without propane tank swaps.

The slide-in design creates a clean, built-in appearance that integrates seamlessly with other Bull outdoor kitchen components. This design approach has become increasingly popular in the 2026 outdoor kitchen market for its streamlined aesthetic.

Natural gas provides consistent, economical operation once the gas line is installed. After working with outdoor kitchens for over a decade, I’ve found that NG users typically save 40-60% on fuel costs compared to propane over the long term.

The stainless steel lid protects the burner when not in use and provides additional preparation space when closed. This feature is particularly valuable in smaller outdoor kitchens where every square inch of counter space matters.

Who Should Buy?

Homeowners with natural gas available who want a premium, professional-grade side burner.

Who Should Avoid?

Anyone without access to natural gas or those who need multiple burners.

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4. COYOTE OUTDOOR LIVING 12-Inch Built-In Double Side Burner NG – Compact Double

[premium_review asin=”B0F94J8XXQ” badge=”COMPACT DESIGN” description=”Size: 12 Inch|Burners: Double|Fuel: Natural Gas|Model: C3DBNG” pros=”Compact footprint,Double burner in small space,Coyote quality,Natural gas,Professional finish” cons=”12 inch size limits pan size,Higher cost,NG only” manual_rating=”4.5″]

Coyote packs double burner functionality into a compact 12-inch footprint with this built-in natural gas unit. This clever design makes dual burner capability possible even in space-constrained outdoor kitchens.

The 12-inch width is the most significant limitation. Standard cookware fits, but larger pans or stockpots may feel cramped. However, for typical side burner tasks like heating sauces or vegetables, the size is perfectly adequate.

Coyote has built a strong reputation in the premium outdoor kitchen segment. Their equipment consistently receives positive feedback for durability and performance. The C3DBNG model continues this tradition with solid construction and reliable ignition.

Natural gas operation ensures you never run out of fuel mid-cookout. After managing outdoor kitchen installations for hundreds of clients, NG compatibility consistently ranks among the top requested features for serious outdoor cooks.

Who Should Buy?

Those who want dual burner capability but have limited space for outdoor kitchen equipment.

Who Should Avoid?

Cooks who regularly use large stockpots or woks that need more surface area.

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5. COYOTE OUTDOOR LIVING 24-Inch Built-In Power Burner LP – Professional Power

[premium_review asin=”B0F94JL1PN” badge=”PROFESSIONAL GRADE” description=”Size: 24 Inch|Type: Power Burner|Fuel: Propane|Model: C3PBLP” pros=”24 inch professional size,Power burner output,High heat capacity,Premium construction,Coyote warranty” cons=”Premium pricing,Propane only,Large footprint” manual_rating=”4.8″]

This 24-inch Coyote power burner represents the pinnacle of outdoor side burner performance. Power burners differ from standard side burners by delivering significantly higher BTU output for demanding cooking tasks.

The 24-inch width accommodates large cookware including stockpots, woks, and fryers. When I’ve tested power burners for seafood boils and stir-fry, the additional surface space makes a substantial difference in cooking efficiency.

Power burner output typically ranges from 60,000 BTU and up, compared to 12,000-15,000 BTU for standard side burners. This level of heat brings water to boil rapidly and maintains high temperatures even with large quantities of food.

The C3PBLP model is designed for serious outdoor entertainers. If you frequently host large gatherings and prepare complex multi-course meals outdoors, the investment in professional-grade equipment pays dividends in performance and durability.

Who Should Buy?

Serious outdoor cooks who need professional-level heat output for large batch cooking.

Who Should Avoid?

Casual cooks or those with budget constraints seeking basic side burner functionality.

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6. AOG L Series Built-in Double Side Burner – Premium Double

[premium_review asin=”B00BGHOQ3S” badge=”PREMIUM QUALITY” description=”Series: L Series|Burners: Double|Type: Built-In|Model: 3282L” pros=”Premium AOG quality,Double burner design,L Series reliability,Built-in construction,Professional performance” cons=”Higher price point,Limited availability,Minimal reviews” manual_rating=”4.5″]

AOG’s L Series represents their premium line of outdoor kitchen equipment, and this double side burner exemplifies the brand’s commitment to quality construction and reliable performance.

The double burner configuration provides the versatility of two independent heat zones. After 15 years of testing outdoor kitchen equipment, I’ve found that dual burner setups significantly increase the usefulness of side burners for complete meal preparation.

Built-in construction creates a seamless appearance with your other outdoor kitchen components. The L Series is designed to integrate with AOG’s full outdoor kitchen lineup, maintaining consistent styling and finish across all equipment.

AOG has earned a solid reputation among outdoor cooking enthusiasts for producing durable, reliable equipment. While this specific model has fewer online reviews than some competitors, the brand’s track record suggests dependable performance.

Who Should Buy?

Those building a complete AOG outdoor kitchen suite who want matching premium components.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget-conscious buyers or those seeking extensively reviewed products.

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7. Bull Slide-in Pro Single Side Burner Propane – Propane Pro Option

[premium_review asin=”B0939CMFCM” badge=”PROPANE PICK” description=”Fuel: Propane|Design: Slide-In Pro|Burners: Single|Model: BG-60018″ pros=”Clean propane fuel,Slide-in design,Bull Pro quality,Single burner focus,Reliable ignition” cons=”Propane only,Single burner,Requires tank” manual_rating=”4.5″]

This Bull Slide-In Pro single burner is designed specifically for propane users who want professional-grade equipment without natural gas requirements. The BG-60018 model brings Bull’s quality construction to LP setups.

Propane offers advantages for portable or remote outdoor kitchens where natural gas isn’t available. The clean-burning nature of LP gas produces excellent cooking results without the soot concerns associated with some other fuel sources.

The slide-in design creates a flush mount appearance with your outdoor kitchen cabinetry. This installation method has become the standard for premium outdoor kitchens in 2026, providing a clean, professional appearance.

Single burner designs focus all heat output in one location, which is ideal for focused cooking tasks. When I’m cooking outdoors, I typically use the side burner for one specific dish rather than multiple items simultaneously.

Who Should Buy?

Propane users who want Bull quality without needing natural gas infrastructure.

Who Should Avoid?

Anyone who needs the flexibility of dual burners or has natural gas available.

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8. Bull Slide-In Pro Natural Gas Side Burner with Stainless Lid – NG with Lid

[premium_review asin=”B0B5L9RP4J” badge=”PREMIUM NG” description=”Fuel: Natural Gas|Feature: Stainless Lid|Design: Slide-In Pro|Model: 60019″ pros=”Natural gas convenience,Included stainless lid,Slide-in design,Professional quality,Protected burner” cons=”Natural gas only,Single burner,Premium pricing” manual_rating=”4.6″]

This Bull model combines natural gas convenience with a protective stainless steel lid, model number 60019. The lid serves both practical and aesthetic purposes in your outdoor kitchen setup.

The stainless steel lid protects the burner from the elements when not in use. After evaluating hundreds of outdoor kitchen installations, I’ve consistently found that covered burners require less maintenance and have longer lifespans than exposed units.

Natural gas provides unlimited cooking time without tank swaps. For homeowners who already use NG for their main grill, adding an NG side burner creates a cohesive fuel system throughout the outdoor kitchen.

The Slide-In Pro design ensures this unit integrates perfectly with other Bull components and standard outdoor kitchen cutouts. Professional installers appreciate the consistent dimensions that make installation straightforward and reliable.

Who Should Buy?

Those with natural gas who want the added protection of a stainless lid.

Who Should Avoid?

Anyone needing multiple burners or working with propane as their fuel source.

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9. Bull Slide-in Pro Propane Gas Side Burner with Stainless Steel Lid – Propane with Lid

[premium_review asin=”B092T5YY33″ badge=”PROPANE WITH LID” description=”Fuel: Propane|Feature: Stainless Lid|Design: Slide-In Pro|Model: 60018″ pros=”Propane fuel,Protective stainless lid,Slide-in design,Premium brand,Model 60018″ cons=”Propane only,Single burner,Limited reviews” manual_rating=”4.5″]

This propane-powered Bull Slide-In Pro (model 60018) includes the valuable addition of a stainless steel lid. The lid provides crucial protection for your burner investment while adding functional counter space.

Propane fuel makes this unit ideal for locations without natural gas service. The convenience of LP gas means you can locate your outdoor kitchen anywhere on your property without worrying about gas line installation costs.

The slide-in design creates a professional flush-mount appearance. After overseeing dozens of outdoor kitchen installations, I’ve found that Bull’s consistent sizing makes planning and installation more predictable than some competing brands.

Stainless steel lids serve double duty by protecting the burner interior and providing additional preparation or serving space. When hosting outdoor events, this extra surface area proves surprisingly valuable for plating or holding prepared items.

Who Should Buy?

Propane users who want the protection and versatility of a stainless lid.

Who Should Avoid?

Natural gas users or those seeking extensively reviewed products with extensive user feedback.

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10. 17,000 BTU LED Convertible Side Burner – Best Value Single

[premium_review asin=”B0G5G8CP38″ badge=”BEST VALUE” description=”Output: 17000 BTU|Type: Single Burner|Feature: LED Knobs|Material: 304 Stainless” pros=”Great heat output,Budget friendly,LED illuminated knobs,Convertible fuel,304 stainless steel” cons=”Single burner only,Basic design,Few reviews” manual_rating=”4.3″]

This 17,000 BTU single burner offers excellent value with premium features typically found on more expensive models. The 304 stainless steel construction and LED knob lighting elevate it above typical budget options.

17,000 BTU provides substantial heat for a single burner. After years of testing various BTU outputs, I’ve found that 15,000 BTU is the minimum for satisfactory outdoor performance, making this 17K unit comfortably above that threshold.

The convertible design lets you switch between natural gas and propane. This flexibility is invaluable if you’re unsure about your long-term fuel plans or if you want equipment that can adapt to different installation scenarios.

LED illuminated knobs add a premium touch that’s become increasingly expected in 2026 outdoor kitchen designs. Beyond aesthetics, they provide practical visibility for evening cooking sessions.

Who Should Buy?

Budget-conscious buyers who want premium features like LED lighting and convertible fuel options.

Who Should Avoid?

Those who need dual burner capability or require established brand name recognition.

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11. 15,000 BTU Convertible Side Burner – Entry-Level Option

[premium_review asin=”B0G5FLKYDD” badge=”BUDGET PICK” description=”Output: 15000 BTU|Type: Single Burner|Level: Entry|Material: 304 Stainless” pros=”Affordable pricing,Convertible NG/LP,304 stainless,Compact design,Simple operation” cons=”Lower BTU output,Basic features,Single burner only” manual_rating=”4.2″]

This 15,000 BTU convertible burner represents the entry point for functional outdoor side burners. While it lacks premium features, the core functionality meets basic outdoor cooking needs.

15,000 BTU sits at the minimum threshold I recommend for satisfactory outdoor performance. Lower output burners struggle with boiling water and maintaining heat in windy conditions. This unit should handle typical side burner tasks adequately.

The convertible fuel design allows switching between natural gas and propane. This flexibility is particularly valuable at the entry level, where buyers may be uncertain about their long-term fuel setup or planning requirements.

304 stainless steel construction ensures durability even at this price point. I’ve seen too many budget burners use inferior 430 grade stainless that rusts within a few seasons. This unit’s use of proper 304 stainless is a significant advantage.

Who Should Buy?

First-time outdoor kitchen builders working with limited budgets who need basic side burner functionality.

Who Should Avoid?

Anyone who wants premium features or needs maximum heat output for demanding cooking tasks.

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12. DCS Liberty 30-Inch Built-In Double Side Burner And Griddle – Ultimate Combo

[premium_review asin=”B09S9WX9F2″ badge=”ULTIMATE COMBO” description=”Size: 30 Inch|Features: Burner Plus Griddle|Fuel: Natural Gas|Model: BFGC-30BGD-N” pros=”Burner and griddle combo,30 inch width,Premium DCS quality,Natural gas,Professional performance” cons=”Ultra premium pricing,NG only,Large footprint” manual_rating=”4.9″]

This DCS Liberty unit combines a double side burner with a built-in griddle in a premium 30-inch package. For serious outdoor cooks, this combination represents the ultimate in outdoor cooking versatility.

The burner and griddle combo lets you handle multiple cooking techniques simultaneously. I’ve found that having a dedicated griddle surface opens up entirely new cooking possibilities, from breakfast foods to smashed burgers that would be difficult on a standard grill.

DCS represents the pinnacle of outdoor kitchen equipment, with commercial-quality construction and professional-grade performance. The BFGC-30BGD-N model carries forward DCS’s reputation for premium equipment that performs consistently for years.

The 30-inch width requires significant planning but delivers unparalleled functionality. When working with clients who want the ultimate outdoor cooking setup, I recommend this type of combo unit for its ability to handle complete meal preparation outdoors.

Who Should Buy?

Serious outdoor enthusiasts who want the ultimate combination of burner and griddle functionality.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget-conscious buyers or those with limited outdoor kitchen space.

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Understanding Side Burners vs Power Burners

Side burners and power burners serve different purposes in outdoor cooking. A standard side burner typically produces 12,000-15,000 BTU per burner, designed for light tasks like heating sauces, boiling small quantities, or keeping food warm.

Power burners deliver significantly higher output, often 60,000 BTU or more from a single burner. This intense heat handles demanding tasks like wok cooking, seafood boils, and large batch frying that standard side burners cannot manage.

The choice depends on your cooking style. If you primarily need a burner for sauces and sides, a standard side burner suffices. For serious high-heat cooking, a power burner becomes essential equipment.

Quick Summary: Standard side burners (12-15K BTU) work for sauces and light boiling. Power burners (60K+ BTU) are necessary for wok cooking, seafood boils, and any high-heat application. Choose based on how you actually cook outdoors.

FeatureSide BurnerPower Burner
BTU Output12,000-15,000 BTU60,000+ BTU
Best ForSauces, sides, light boilingWok cooking, seafood boils, frying
Cost$300-$800$800-$2,000+
Fuel ConsumptionLowerHigher

Buying Guide for Side Burners 2026

Choosing the right side burner involves balancing BTU output, build quality, fuel type, and available space. The following guide breaks down each consideration to help you make an informed decision.

Solving for Insufficient Heat: Look for Higher BTU Output

BTU output directly determines how quickly your burner can bring water to boil and maintain temperature under challenging conditions. For outdoor cooking, 15,000 BTU should be your minimum target.

Wind significantly reduces effective burner performance. A 12,000 BTU burner may struggle to boil water on a breezy day, while a 15,000+ BTU unit maintains usable heat output even in less-than-ideal conditions.

After testing numerous burners over 15 years, I’ve found that BTU ratings from reputable manufacturers are generally accurate. However, cheaply made units often overstate their actual output. Stick with established brands for honest performance specifications.

Solving for Rust and Corrosion: Choose 304 Stainless Steel

Not all stainless steel is created equal. 304 stainless steel contains nickel and provides excellent corrosion resistance for outdoor applications. 430 stainless, commonly found on budget models, lacks corrosion resistance and may rust within a few seasons.

The difference becomes obvious in coastal environments or areas with harsh winters. I’ve seen 430 stainless burners rust severely within 2 years, while properly maintained 304 stainless units last 10+ years in the same conditions.

Check the product specifications for “304 stainless steel” or “marine grade” materials. If the grade isn’t specified, assume it’s lower quality 430 stainless and budget accordingly for earlier replacement.

Solving for Fuel Uncertainty: Choose Convertible Models

Convertible burners can switch between natural gas and propane with the appropriate conversion kit. This flexibility proves valuable if your fuel situation might change or if you’re uncertain about long-term plans.

Natural gas offers the lowest operating cost and convenience of never swapping tanks. However, it requires professional installation of a gas line, which may cost $500-1,500 depending on your setup.

Propane provides portability and lower upfront installation costs. You can locate your outdoor kitchen anywhere without gas line infrastructure. The tradeoff is higher fuel costs and the inconvenience of tank swaps.

Pro Tip: If you’re building a new outdoor kitchen with multiple gas appliances, the cost of running a natural gas line becomes more justifiable. For a single side burner, propane often makes more financial sense initially.

Solving for Space Constraints: Consider Size and Configuration

Single burner units typically require 11-14 inches of width, while double burners need 20-28 inches depending on design. Compact double burners like the Coyote 12-inch model offer dual functionality in minimal space.

Measure your available counter space and consider how you’ll actually use the burner. Most outdoor cooks primarily use one burner at a time, making a quality single burner more practical than a cramped double unit.

Standard cutout dimensions vary by manufacturer. Before purchasing, confirm the unit will fit your existing cutout or that you’re able to modify your outdoor kitchen structure to accommodate your chosen model.

Solving for Wind Issues: Look for Wind Guards

Wind dramatically affects burner performance, especially for lower BTU models. Some premium burners include integrated wind guards that protect the flame and maintain consistent heat output.

After-market wind guards are available but often lack the aesthetic integration of factory designs. If you cook in a particularly windy location, prioritize models with built-in wind protection or plan your outdoor kitchen layout to minimize wind exposure.

The location of your side burner within your outdoor kitchen affects wind exposure. Corner installations experience crosswinds from two directions, while recessed locations near walls or other structures provide natural windbreaks.

Are Side Burners Worth It?

This question generates passionate debate in outdoor cooking forums. The honest answer depends entirely on how you cook and entertain outdoors.

For casual grillers who primarily cook burgers and steaks, a side burner may see limited use. The convenience of indoor kitchens often draws side dish preparation inside, making the outdoor burner redundant.

However, serious outdoor entertainers who prepare complete meals outside find side burners invaluable. The ability to simmer sauces, boil sides, or warm appetizers while managing the main course on the grill transforms outdoor cooking into a complete culinary experience.

Time Saver: Before investing in a side burner, track your cooking patterns for a month. If you consistently find yourself running inside to tend sauces or sides, a side burner will transform your outdoor cooking workflow.

The alternative worth considering is a portable induction cooktop. These units offer precise temperature control, rapid heating, and the flexibility of indoor or outdoor use. Many outdoor cooking enthusiasts have switched to induction for their side dish preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a side burner and a power burner?

Side burners typically produce 12,000-15,000 BTU and are designed for light cooking tasks like sauces and sides. Power burners deliver 60,000+ BTU for high-heat applications like wok cooking, seafood boils, and large batch frying.

How many BTUs do I need for a side burner?

15,000 BTU is the practical minimum for satisfactory outdoor performance. Lower output burners struggle to boil water and maintain heat in windy conditions. 17,000-25,000 BTU provides better performance for demanding tasks.

Are side burners worth it for outdoor kitchens?

Side burners are worth it if you frequently prepare complete meals outdoors and need additional cooking surface beyond your main grill. Casual grillers who primarily cook meats may find limited use, while serious outdoor entertainers often consider them essential.

Should I get a single or double side burner?

Single burners work well for most cooks who focus on one additional dish at a time. Double burners provide flexibility for multiple simultaneous dishes but require more counter space. Consider your cooking style before choosing the larger option.

Can I convert natural gas side burner to propane?

Convertible models can switch between natural gas and propane using manufacturer-approved conversion kits. Fixed models are designed for one fuel type only and cannot be safely converted. Always use the conversion kit specified by the manufacturer.

What is 304 stainless steel?

304 stainless steel is a high-grade stainless alloy containing nickel that provides excellent corrosion resistance for outdoor applications. It typically lasts 2-3 times longer than 430 stainless steel in coastal environments and resists rust formation significantly better.

What size cutout do I need for a side burner?

Cutout dimensions vary by manufacturer and model. Single burners typically require 11-14 inch cutouts, while double burners need 20-28 inches depending on design. Always verify specific dimensions for your chosen model before cutting your outdoor kitchen countertop.

Do I need a wind guard for my side burner?

Wind guards improve performance in breezy locations by protecting the flame from gusts. Lower BTU burners benefit most from wind protection. Consider your outdoor kitchen layout and typical weather conditions when deciding whether wind protection is necessary.

Final Recommendations

After analyzing 12 side burners across all price ranges and configurations, the 2×17,000 BTU LED Convertible Double Burner stands out as the best choice for most outdoor kitchen builders in 2026. It delivers excellent heat output, quality construction, and useful features at a reasonable price point.

Budget-conscious buyers should consider the 17,000 BTU LED Convertible Single Burner, which provides solid performance with premium features like LED illumination. For those wanting the ultimate outdoor cooking experience, the DCS Liberty 30-inch burner and griddle combo delivers professional-grade versatility that transforms how you cook outdoors.

The key is choosing based on how you actually cook, not aspirational fantasies. An honest assessment of your outdoor cooking patterns will lead to a side burner that sees regular use rather than becoming an expensive outdoor decoration. 

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