When it comes to outdoor cooking, having the best small gas grill can make all the difference. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a camping enthusiast, or someone with limited patio space, a compact yet powerful gas grill offers convenience, portability, and excellent performance. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the top options on the market, highlighting key features like BTU output, cooking surface area, durability, and ease of use.
From sleek designs perfect for urban balconies to rugged models built for on-the-go adventures, we’ve evaluated grills that deliver flavorful results without compromising on space. We’ll also cover essential buying considerations, such as fuel efficiency, construction materials, and additional accessories. Whether you’re grilling burgers, veggies, or steaks, finding the right small gas grill can elevate your outdoor cooking experience. Let’s dive in and explore the top contenders to help you make an informed decision.
1. Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill
Overall Review: The Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill is a compact, portable, and efficient gas grill perfect for small spaces, balconies, or tailgating. It delivers consistent heat and even cooking, making it a great choice for quick meals or small gatherings. With its durable construction and user-friendly design, it’s a reliable option for those seeking a high-quality portable grill.
What We Like:
- Portability: Lightweight and compact, ideal for travel or small outdoor spaces.
- Even Heating: Provides consistent heat distribution for perfectly cooked food.
- Durable Build: Made with high-quality materials, ensuring long-term use.
- Easy Ignition: Reliable push-button ignition for hassle-free startup.
- Adjustable Burner: Allows precise temperature control for various cooking styles.
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited Cooking Space: Smaller grilling area may not suit larger groups.
- No Built-in Thermometer: Requires an external thermometer for accurate temperature checks.
- Propane Dependency: Needs a separate propane tank, which adds to setup.
2. Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Gas Grill
Overall Review: The Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Gas Grill is a compact yet powerful option for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Ideal for small gatherings, picnics, or tailgating, this grill offers a balance of portability and performance. With 145 square inches of cooking space and a 5,500 BTU burner, it heats up quickly and delivers even heat distribution. The lightweight design and foldable legs make it easy to transport, while the durable stainless steel construction ensures longevity. While it may not replace a full-sized grill for large groups, it excels in convenience and efficiency for on-the-go grilling.
What We Like:
- Portability: Lightweight and compact, with foldable legs for easy storage and transport.
- Quick Heating: The 5,500 BTU burner provides fast preheating and consistent cooking temperatures.
- Durable Build: Stainless steel construction resists rust and wear, ensuring long-term use.
- Easy Assembly: Simple setup with minimal tools required, making it user-friendly.
- Versatility: Compatible with small propane tanks (1 lb.), perfect for camping or small outdoor spaces.
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited Space: The 145 sq. in. cooking area may be too small for larger meals or groups.
- No Lid Lock: The lid doesn’t lock securely, which can be inconvenient during transport.
- Basic Features: Lacks advanced options like temperature gauges or side tables.
- Propane Consumption: May use fuel quickly at high heat settings.
3. Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 Portable Gas Grill
Overall Review: The Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 Portable Gas Grill is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts who need a compact, yet powerful grill for on-the-go cooking. With its sturdy construction and efficient performance, it delivers great results whether you’re tailgating, camping, or hosting a backyard BBQ. The grill heats up quickly and maintains consistent temperatures, making it ideal for grilling burgers, hot dogs, and even vegetables. Its portability and ease of setup make it a standout option in the portable grill market.
What We Like:
- Compact & Portable: Lightweight design with a carrying handle makes it easy to transport.
- Quick Heating: Reaches optimal grilling temperature in minutes for fast cooking.
- Sturdy Build: Durable materials ensure longevity even with frequent use.
- Easy Setup: Simple assembly and ignition system for hassle-free grilling.
- Even Heat Distribution: Provides consistent cooking without hot spots.
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited Cooking Space: Smaller grilling surface may not be ideal for large groups.
- No Built-In Thermometer: Requires an external thermometer to monitor temperature.
- Basic Features: Lacks advanced options like side burners or storage compartments.
4. Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill
Overall Review: The Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill is a versatile and convenient option for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Designed for portability and ease of use, this grill offers a compact yet powerful cooking surface, making it ideal for camping, tailgating, or backyard BBQs. With its sturdy stand and quick-start ignition, it delivers consistent heat and even cooking. While it excels in portability and setup, some users may find its size limiting for larger gatherings.
What We Like:
- Portability: Lightweight and foldable design makes it easy to transport and store.
- Quick Setup: Stand assembles in seconds, and the grill is ready to use with propane hookup.
- Even Heating: Three adjustable burners provide consistent heat distribution.
- Durability: Sturdy construction with a rust-resistant finish ensures longevity.
- Convenient Ignition: Push-button ignition for hassle-free startup.
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited Cooking Space: 285 sq. inches may be insufficient for larger groups.
- Wind Sensitivity: Lacks wind blockers, which can affect performance in breezy conditions.
- No Side Tables: Missing additional workspace for food prep or utensils.
- Propane Dependency: Requires a separate propane tank (not included).
5. Napoleon TravelQ 285 Portable Gas Grill
Overall Review: The Napoleon TravelQ 285 Portable Gas Grill is a compact yet powerful grill designed for on-the-go cooking. With its sturdy construction, efficient heating, and portability, it’s an excellent choice for camping, tailgating, or small backyard gatherings. The grill offers a good balance between performance and convenience, though it has a few minor drawbacks.
What We Like:
- Portability: Lightweight and compact, with folding legs and a carrying handle for easy transport.
- Powerful Burner: 12,000 BTU stainless steel burner heats up quickly and provides even cooking.
- Durable Build: High-quality materials, including a cast iron cooking grid, ensure longevity.
- Easy Setup: Simple assembly and ignition system make it user-friendly.
- Versatile: Works with small propane cylinders, ideal for outdoor adventures.
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited Cooking Space: 285 sq. inches may be too small for larger groups.
- No Side Tables: Lacks additional workspace for food prep or tools.
- Wind Sensitivity: Performance can be affected by strong winds due to its open design.
In summary, the Napoleon TravelQ 285 is a reliable portable grill for those who prioritize convenience and performance in a compact package. While it may not suit large gatherings, it excels in portability and ease of use.
Buying guide
Buying Guide for Choosing the Right Product
Size and Portability
Key Idea: Consider where and how you plan to use the product to determine the ideal size and portability.
When selecting a product, size and portability are crucial factors. If you need something for travel or small spaces, opt for a compact and lightweight design. Larger models may offer more features but can be cumbersome to move. Check dimensions and weight before purchasing to ensure it fits your needs. Foldable or detachable components can enhance portability, making storage and transportation easier.
Heat Output and Control
Key Idea: Ensure the product provides adequate heat output with adjustable settings for versatility.
Heat output varies significantly between models. High-wattage products generate more heat but may consume more energy. Look for adjustable temperature controls to customize performance based on your requirements. Some models include safety features like auto-shutoff to prevent overheating. If precision is important, digital thermostats offer better control than manual dials.
Material and Durability
Key Idea: Choose high-quality materials that ensure longevity and performance.
The product’s material affects both durability and functionality. Stainless steel and ceramic are common for their heat resistance and sturdiness. Plastic components may reduce weight but can degrade over time. Check for reinforced seams and scratch-resistant coatings if durability is a priority. Read reviews to assess real-world performance and longevity.
Ease of Cleaning
Key Idea: Select a product with user-friendly cleaning features to maintain hygiene and performance.
Cleaning ease depends on design and materials. Non-stick surfaces or removable parts simplify maintenance. Avoid intricate designs with hard-to-reach crevices where dirt can accumulate. Dishwasher-safe components save time, while some products may require special cleaning methods. Always follow manufacturer guidelines to prevent damage.
Additional Features
Key Idea: Extra functionalities can enhance convenience and usability.
Modern products often include smart features like timers, touch controls, or app connectivity. LED displays, ergonomic handles, and noise reduction can improve the user experience. Assess whether these extras justify a higher price or if a basic model suffices. Prioritize features that align with your daily needs.
Budget Considerations
Key Idea: Balance cost with essential features to get the best value.
Prices vary widely based on brand, materials, and features. Set a budget range and compare options within it. Avoid overspending on unnecessary extras, but don’t compromise on critical aspects like safety or durability. Look for warranties or guarantees that add long-term value. Seasonal sales or refurbished models can offer significant savings.
Finally, what is the best small gas grill?
After thoroughly reviewing the five portable grills—Weber Q1200, Cuisinart CGG-180T, Char-Broil Grill2Go X200, Coleman RoadTrip 285, and Napoleon TravelQ 285—we conclude that each offers unique strengths tailored to different grilling needs. The Weber Q1200 stands out for its superior build quality, even heat distribution, and compact yet powerful design, making it our top pick. Its cast-iron grates and precise temperature control ensure professional-grade results, whether tailgating or hosting a backyard BBQ.
The Cuisinart Petit Gourmet excels in affordability and ultra-portability, while the Char-Broil Grill2Go impresses with its rugged durability and innovative grease management. The Coleman RoadTrip 285’s stand-up design and spacious cooking area cater to larger groups, and the Napoleon TravelQ 285 combines premium materials with sleek aesthetics, though at a higher price point.
Ultimately, the Weber Q1200 strikes the best balance between performance, portability, and durability. Its consistent heat output, easy setup, and reputation for longevity justify the investment for serious grill enthusiasts. While the other models have merits, the Weber’s reliability and versatility make it the standout choice for most users.