Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill: Our 2026 Take
By Ben Carter
9.2
Consumer's Best Score
Consumers Best Verdict: Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill Highlights
You’re getting four robust main burners, a blistering infrared side sear zone, and a rear infrared burner for rotisserie nights. Ignition is reliable, the stainless build feels substantial, and those wave grates leave steakhouse-level marks. If you entertain or you’re just ready to graduate from a starter grill, the napoleon prestige 500 propane gas grill stands out as a top-tier, confidence-boosting choice from a brand we trust at Consumer's Best.
Look, after a pile of weeknight cooks and a couple big backyard hangs, my takeaway is simple: the Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill just makes food taste better, faster. Searing is wild, heat is steady, and the whole thing feels built to last. It’s a premium grill at a premium price—no surprise there—but the performance and little quality-of-life touches make it feel worth it every time you lift the lid.
In-Depth Look: Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill Features & Considerations
Core Features & Consumer Benefits
Here’s what consistently impressed me—and why it matters when you’re actually cooking.
Serious searing power
The infrared side burner ramps up fast for restaurant-quality crusts on steaks, chops, and smash burgers.
Versatile roasting with the rear IR
Rotisserie chicken, prime rib, even a leg of lamb—juicy inside, crisp outside, with hands-off consistency.
Even, predictable heat
The multi-burner layout and layered sear plates smooth out hot spots, so you’re not chasing flare-ups or moving food constantly.
Built to be used hard
Stainless construction, thick wave grates, and rock-solid Jetfire ignition that lights on the first try more often than not.
Thoughtful usability
Backlit knobs, an easy-lifting lid, roomy shelves, and straightforward cleanup all add up to a stress-free cook—on a Tuesday or for a crowd.
Important Considerations & Potential Downsides
- Price lands squarely in “premium”
The performance backs it up, but budget shoppers may feel the pinch.
- Footprint and weight
It’s a sizable, heavy grill—great for a patio, less ideal for small balconies or frequent moves.
- Fuel usage when pushing heat
The sear zone and rear infrared burner sip propane quickly; keep a spare tank ready if you host often.
- No built-in smart tech
If you’re after Wi‑Fi control or app-guided cooks, you’ll need third‑party probes or a different grill.
Who Is the Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill Best For?
Steak-night obsessives
You want a blistering crust and deep grill marks without fuss.
Rotisserie enthusiasts
You’ll actually use the rear infrared burner for show-stopping roasts and birds.
Frequent entertainers
Cooking for 6–10 guests regularly and need reliable, repeatable results.
Upgrade shoppers
Moving up from an entry-level grill and ready for durable materials and real power.
Four-season grillers
You cook year-round and value consistent ignition, steady heat, and easy cleanup.
Who Might Want to Explore Other Options?
- Tight budgets
Consider a quality 3-burner mid-range grill with a standard side burner.
- Small-space dwellers
A compact 2-burner or portable model will fit balconies and store more easily.
- Smart-grill fans
If you want Wi‑Fi/app control and guided cooks, look at connected gas or pellet grills.
- Charcoal purists
If smoke and live-fire ritual matter most, a kettle or kamado might scratch the itch better.
