So I'm getting a generator installed and having the guys run a gas line to my deck while they are running the gas line to the generator. With that I've decided to add a gas grill to my current arsenal of a Green Mountain Pellet and a Weber Kettle. It seems like the Napoleon Prestige is the my best option in that price range if I still want to be able to get the good sear I'm used to with the kettle. If I'm spending that much, I want to make sure I don't regret not getting the "best" but when comparing the Prestige to the Prestige Pro it really seems like the extra options just aren't work the extra $1000. From what I can tell I'd be paying an extra $1k for cooler light-up knobs, grill lights and an ice bucket. Am I missing something? When I got the pellet smoker I always regretted not getting the top model so I don't want to make the same mistake, but I also don't want to just light money on fire (pun intended)
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No, I do not think you are missing much. I have the Prestige Pro 500 using propane. There are a couple features for the cart that are missing in the non-Pro 500. Slide out drawer for the propane tank, but with NG, that really does not benefit you. More shelve space in the Pro as well, but again, not a huge benefit. The ride side table has the "cooler" space, which I have never used. I suppose I could store some non-food/non-drink items in it, but nope, never have.
The grate for the side IR burner is stainless steel in the Pro, cast iron in the Prestige. The internal lights have not proven to be very useful to me. I don't do that much grilling in the dark, and those lights don't do much at dusk, so not a big "missing it". Easy to add a portable, clamp on light if you really need one.
So, bottom line: I think the Presitge, particularly using NG versus propane, would be a great grill. I love the slide out drawer for the propane tank on the Pro as at age 75+, it is an immense help. Hope this helps! -
I was having the same dilemma but in the end I decided to go with the pro. The build quality (especially with the cabinet doors) is much better. The grates are a thicker stainless. I do like the lighted knobs. Just moving this weekend so I haven’t had a chance to cook on it yet.Comment
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I have one of the Triumph models which i believe are made in China vs the US. But it cooks like a champ and the side sear burner is no joke at all. Im fairly confident whichever model you pick you will have a good experience.Comment
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I bought the Phantom 500 last year (I just had to have the blacked out look... lol) Love the grill. Lifetime warranty on everythingComment
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So, they are holding up?
I have seen some complaints about decals rubbing off, uneven temps and other various quality issues. When hundreds of any item are manufactured, some of them will have problems. That is just the way the world works.Comment
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Carolyn The only issue I have had with my Prestige Pro 500 is the decals rubbing off. I used a degreaser, pretty common one that I've used for years for my grills, and discovered those decals on the front panel come right off. Otherwise, the grill has been solid, no temp issues that I've seen.
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I have had a Prestige 500 since 2010 and it is still going strong. I have replaced the grate on the sideburner with a stainless one and replaced the drip pan but Napoleon is great with parts availability. The decals on the front have come off, but I have scrubbed it pretty hard over the years. If I ever get a new gasser it will be another Napoleon.
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Thank you for the information.
I wouldn't expect an outdoor cooker to stay pristine, but it should be a while before it starts looking long-in-the-tooth.
Seems like there are increasing quality issues across all brands these days. I tend to look at the trends, not the odd repair: longevity of cooking grates, burners, structural issues, etc.
Customer service is really important too.
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