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We tested 22 of the most intriguing portable grills on the market in a head-to-head showdown, including top brands like Weber, Snow Peak, Coleman, Ninja, Cuisinart, and more, to hone in on which deliver the tastiest results
For this update, we purchased seven new models. Pictured here are the new propane and pellet models.
Credit: Ross Patton
By Trish Matheny ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Updated August 18, 2025
Summertime means grilling time, but that doesn't always mean you'll be at home. If you're looking to take your BBQing on the road, be it to your next campsite, tailgate party, or beachside vacation rental, we've uncovered the best portable grills for that perfect smoky-sweet, savory flavor your summer adventurers crave.
Our diverse team of testers examined a broad collection of the best-selling portable grills on the market — including propane, pellet, electric, and charcoal-powered models — to find the ones that deliver the very best, regardless of your meal planning and portability needs. We spent weeks BBQing for family and friends, and even relied on a few to deliver during private chef events in the backcountry — really putting their portability to the test. We found the very best portable grills come in a compact design, are easy to transport, and output enough power to grill up a tasty meal outdoors, no matter where you light the flame.
After several rounds of testing, the Weber Traveler is the best overall due to an expansive cooking surface, impressive output power and control, and key features that make even this full-size grill easy to transport. If you are on a budget and don't mind a tabletop model, the Cuisinart CGG-306 Chef's Style gives the best value but lacks wheels and a built-in stand.
If you plan on cooking in the great outdoors, our experts also weigh in on the best camping stoves and backpacking stoves. Or, if you prefer to cook over an open flame campfire style, check out our fire pit review.
Editor's Note: Our portable grill review was updated on August 18, 2025, to include three new portable grills from nomadiQ, Traeger, and Ninja to our lineup.
The Weber Traveler is the Cadillac of portable grills, delivering mouth-watering meals anywhere you go. Its designers paid careful attention to every high-performing detail, from the piezoelectric ignitor that easily fires up the grill to the consistent temperature control that is easily monitored with a thermostat centrally located on the lid. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grate has a smooth finish that helps to prevent food from sticking, making for easy cleanup. However, the most notable feature is the mechanized lift assist, which is designed to set up and break down this grill with just one hand. “I can't tell you how much fun it is to cook on the Traveler,” said tester Trish Matheny. “This grill is hands down the most well-refined option we've tested, making grilling a pleasure.” If a long, leisurely evening by the fire after you've grilled your treats sounds like a perfect summer plan, we also recommend checking out the Snow Peak Takibi Fire & Grill. It's a sleek package that introduces a warm ambiance into your post-grill hang.
SPECIFICATIONS
Heat/Power Source
Liquid propane
Total BTU
13,000
Weight (Per Manufacturer)
49.0 lbs
Measured Cooking Surface Area
390 sq in
Number of Burners
1
"Really, the only caveat I found with the top-of-the-line Weber Traveler is that it is heavy — 49 pounds! — which limits it to a user group who can lift it," says one tester whose back was sore after lifting heavy grills during testing. If you want to save your lower back, it's better to opt for a slightly smaller, tabletop-friendly model like the Weber Q 1200. The larger Traveler also requires more space to store, even though it packs down into a compact size for transport and storage. It is also one of the most expensive grills we tested. That said, it stood apart from the competition with an outstanding performance, high-quality construction, and meticulous design that will satisfy the highest standards of any backyard or campground chef.
The Cuisinart CGG-306 Chef's Style Portable grill is perfect for those seeking high performance at a relatively affordable price. Two independent burners feature a twist dial electronic ignition system that fires up every time. Offering a combined 20,000 BTUs, it provides top-of-the-line output power, especially considering it's only a portable tabletop grill rather than a full-size outdoor model. “I found it easy to maintain different heat zones along the same grilling surface, thanks to the low to high settings available on each dial,” says one tester. “This makes it versatile enough to sear a steak on one side while slow-cooking water-laden vegetables on the other.” The 275 square inch grilltop was among the largest that we tested, making it a better choice for those who will be mobile cooking for small groups. If you're interested in an even more packable option that features nearly as much grill space, check out the nomadiQ, which has 226 square inches to cook with and is our favorite easy-carry design.
SPECIFICATIONS
Heat/Power Source
Liquid propane
Total BTU
20,000
Weight (Per Manufacturer)
22.0 lbs
Measured Cooking Surface Area
275 sq in
Number of Burners
2
Though the streamlined stainless steel Cuisinart CGG-306 Chef's Style Portable is designed for mobile cooking, we question the long-term durability of some features, like its large handle and foldable legs, which feel less-than-sturdy in hand. Lead tester Trish Matheny notes, “Rather than carrying the 22-pound CGG-306 by its large handle, I chose to carry it with both hands below the sides to be sure nothing broke in transit.” It's also crucial to clean the grease trap before transporting your grill, or you'll face a significant mess. Wind is another potential concern. While the lid fully encloses the grill's two burners, we found that small ventilation panels on each side and at the back of the grill allow wind to affect the flame within. Taking the time to position your grill away from the wind can be key to getting the best performance. If versatility is a top priority, you will love the high-powered, easy temperature control of the Cuisinart CGG-306. It is our favorite for any budding chef who enjoys grilling for small groups on the move. But if a smaller size seems more appropriate to your needs, the Cuisinart Grillster is a worthwhile and affordable alternative.
The Cuisinart CGG-306 is a high quality table top grill that supplies high output power thanks to two independent burners that offer a combined 20,000 BTUs.
For the size and price, it may be tough to find a compact grill that is more powerful than the Cuisinart Grillster. “I found this compact gas grill can sear with the best of 'em,” reports our lead tester. Not only is it incredibly fuel-efficient, but this portable powerhouse reaches peak temperature within a matter of minutes after clicking on the piezo lighter. A lightweight steel lid and three insulating walls give it the ability to both block wind and retain heat, allowing you to cook in less-than-ideal weather. This model cools down almost as quickly as it heats up, setting you up for a quick getaway. It also sports a locking lid with enough space inside to store a one-pound gas canister, along with an easy-to-carry handle. At only 10 pounds, this is a surprisingly powerful grill you can take most anywhere. Other highly portable models, like the 12-pound nomadiQ, may be designed with even more features to make the carrying process even easier, but will cost you more than double to take home.
SPECIFICATIONS
Heat/Power Source
Liquid propane
Total BTU
8,000
Weight (Per Manufacturer)
10.0 lbs
Measured Cooking Surface Area
148 sq in
Number of Burners
1
"The Cuisinart Grillster is a great choice for searing steaks and other high-temperature cooking, but I found controlling the overall range on this rip-roaring grill to be difficult," says one tester who lamented her blackened veggies from the excessive flame. Unless our goal was blackened chicken or blistered peppers, we rarely used anything other than the lowest gas setting. Unsurprisingly, such a compact, portable design also comes with a smaller grilling space than other options better suited to a group, like the Cuisinart CGG-306 Chef's Style Portable. But otherwise, the petite, sure-footed Grillster is the perfect companion for a picnic for two, no matter the location. If charcoal grilling is allowed, the Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill is of a similar size for easy carrying once the briquettes cool.
The nomadiQ is one of the most packable, easy-to-carry grills we've ever tested. Weighing in at a modest 12 pounds, it provides 226 square inches of cooking space powered by two independently controlled propane burners that produce a combined 9,200 BTUs, allowing for simultaneous cooking between low and high temperatures. Its sleek design easily folds into the shape of a shoulder bag or laptop case with a measured width of only five inches across. It comes with a thick shoulder strap for easy transport, in addition to a thick ergonomic handle on the top of the grill for a quick grab when carrying it over shorter distances.
To get cooking, simply unlock the mechanisms holding the plates in place before pulling up on the handle. This unfolds the plates into their grilling position. Our lead tester commented, “It's just as easy to set up as it is to repack again once you are finished grilling — one of the many reasons I loved it for quick trips.” The grill reaches peak heat in a matter of minutes once ignited, and the independently controlled dual burner system makes it easy to sear meat on one side while slow-cooking vegetables or poultry on the other. However, be warned: the low to high settings take a little getting used to, and we found it necessary to rotate food between hot and cool spots around the grilltop to achieve our desired results. You'll generally find more consistent grilling temps on electric models like the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill or the Elite Gourmet 12" Electric Indoor.
SPECIFICATIONS
Heat/Power Source
Liquid propane
Total BTU
9,200
Weight (Per Manufacturer)
12.0 lbs
Measured Cooking Surface Area
226 sq in
Number of Burners
2
The nomadiQ is a master of portability, simplicity, and efficiency. It's a grill you'll be happy to grab for picnics, tailgating, and weekend getaways. But it doesn't offer a lot of wind resistance due to its open design and the lack of walls along its outer edges or a lid over its top. And our testers discovered even the slightest gust of wind could affect the flame. So you'll need to be thoughtful about where and when you set it up for cooking. It also features a ceramic-coated non-stick cooking grate, which some users might not love, as it is quite difficult to clean while camping. With access to a dishwasher or sink, it's far easier. Another consideration is the high price, which is sure to be a limitation for some. Drawbacks aside, this grill is one-of-a-kind, simple to use, and cooks well, making it a welcome tool of convenience for those who travel and spend time outside. Great tabletop options with more modest price tags do exist, like the Cuisinart CGG-306 Chef's Style Portable and the Cuisinart Grillster, even if they lack the portability-first design features of the nomadiQ.
The Nomadiq propane grill features dual burners (that are independently controlled) that combine to offer 9,200 BTUs of output power within a uniquely portable design.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Best Versatile Performance
Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill & Smoker with Thermometer
The Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill & Smoker with Thermometer is a highly versatile electric grill that shines for how easy it is to use. And it is capable of so much more than grilling. Try baking, smoking, air frying, broiling, roasting, or even dehydrating, all by simply rotating a front dial and opting to place either the non-stick grilling grate or lightweight air fryer basket inside. With 1760 watts of power and easy-to-read display prompts, this foolproof design takes the mobile chef experience to new heights. And with a full-enclosed grill space, you will no longer be subject to the whims of the wind.
If you are a fan of wood-fired flavor, you'll love the simplicity of the Ninja's smoke box. Just fill with a scoop full of Ninja-brand wood pellets, choose “Smoker” on the dial, and add your favorite meats to the grill. The lid traps smoke inside while the built-in thermometer and convection fan produce consistent heat to slow-seal the woodfire flavor into your meal with minimal effort. "When compared to other true pellet grills, like the Traeger Ranger Pellet with its large-capacity hopper, I found the Ninja's smoker design to be much easier to use," says lead tester Trish Matheny.
SPECIFICATIONS
Heat/Power Source
Electric with optional pellets for flavor
Total BTU
N/A
Weight (Per Manufacturer)
31.0 lbs
Measured Cooking Surface Area
180 sq in
Number of Burners
N/A
The Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill & Smoker weighs 31 pounds and measures 22 inches wide. So, it's not the most portable tabletop grill we've tested. But it does feature two large handles located on either side to make it easier to carry. However, one tester voiced concerns about the safety of that construction, saying, “I can't help but notice the small screws in the plastic handles and wonder how long they'll be up to the task before something breaks — I definitely wonder whether or not I should wear sandals while transporting the grill.”
Another issue is power. Since the Ninja relies on electricity, an outlet needs to be easily available outside. Not every space will accommodate this, or in some cases, an extension cord could be required. With risk of wildfire increasing across many locations, our testers are highly aware of the risks when setting up grills for testing, noting that an indoor grill like the Elite Gourmet 12" Electric Indoor may at times be a far better choice for easy BBQing and tasty results. Also, this is an expensive grill. You are paying more for extreme versatility and carefree outdoor cooking, but not every grill master will require so many bells and whistles. For a more affordable yet more traditional option, check out the Cuisinart Venture Gas, a lightweight, thoughtfully designed propane grill perfect for family picnics or weekends at the lake.
The Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill & Smoker with Thermometer is a unique and versatile electric-powered grilling option that provides consistent heat and wood-fired flavor.
Weber has a reputation for building grills that gracefully blend cooking performance and reliability, and that tradition is rolled into a beautifully portable package with the impressive Weber Q 1200. “Although it is not the most powerful when measuring output power alone, in use, I found it efficiently and effectively reaches ideal searing temperatures within just minutes of preheating,” says one tester. The highlight of this top-quality build is its porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates, which comfortably retain heat and evenly distribute it via the U-shaped stainless steel burner underneath. Simply put, this model lets us grill with more predictability and control than most of the other models we bought and tested. Tabletop options with extreme control, like the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill & Smoker, often rely on electric power to maintain heat. If you want consistency and control plus the mobility of propane power, go with the Q 1200.
SPECIFICATIONS
Heat/Power Source
Liquid propane
Total BTU
8,500
Weight (Per Manufacturer)
31.0 lbs
Measured Cooking Surface Area
189 sq in
Number of Burners
1
Though the Weber Q 1200 reaches top temperatures with ease, we saw some issues when aiming for low-and-slow results. One tester reports, “I found it challenging to harness the heat of the grill surface at this lower range, a surprise since higher temps held steady without effort.” So you'll want to take care with your veggies. The Q 1200 excels in a backyard or tailgate setting, but with a 31-pound weight and bulky packed size, and no latching lid, it's a less ideal choice for carrying longer distances from your vehicle. Something like the Cuisinart Petite Gourmet is about half the size and weight, and features extendable legs, making it easier to bring along to picnic spots further afield. But for car camping and other limited-carry situations, the Weber Q 1200 is an accessible design that produces tasty grillables with enough control to appeal to novices and professionals alike.
For all the pit-cooking fans out there, we offer up the Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill. This well-built barbecue is an innovative take on the manufacturer's well-known design, incorporating their classic enameled, cast-iron construction into a more convenient, compact package. It's small, but it feels substantial, with a rectangular basin that can hold a coal bed both deep and evenly spread. A plated steel top grate settles securely into place thanks to deep-seated insets cast into the frame. This makes it simple to adjust heat zones without fear of dropping your whole meal into the coals.
SPECIFICATIONS
Heat/Power Source
Charcoal
Total BTU
N/A
Weight (Per Manufacturer)
14.9 lbs
Measured Cooking Surface Area
140 sq in
Number of Burners
N/A
We cannot guarantee that the Go-Anywhere will boast the same heat output as its gas-powered competitors — that's up to you and your coal-stoking abilities. And, no question, there is a learning curve involved in mastering different heat zones. But the potential for extreme grilling accuracy is one of the primary benefits of cooking over charcoal, a precision that generally cannot be matched by gas grills. One tester reports on her experience trying to dial in the system for best results, saying, “I found the tightly fitting vents difficult to adjust without gloves, and it then takes time to manage all adjustments skillfully to set up the right airflow.” But with practice, this well-designed portable grill can set you up to master the art of cooking over an open flame, even on the go. If you're intimidated by charcoal grilling or just don't want to deal with the cleanup, consider a powerful yet easy-to-carry propane grill like the Cuisinart Grillster or nomadiQ.
Versatile combination of outdoor grill and fireplace
CONS
Lacks convenience of propane
Expensive
Heavy
Takes some finesse to develop consistent heat and control
The Snow Peak Takibi Fire & Grill combines the utility of a portable grill with the ambiance-enhancements of an outdoor fireplace. The attractive modern aesthetic and durability of the stainless steel design were notable among our testing team, who were pleased to find it also delivered in function. We had no trouble grilling a variety of different foods for dinner over the open fire before converting the grill station into fire pit mode, for a relaxing post-meal hang. Even highly versatile models like the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill & Smoker do not offer the option to enjoy an open fire. This thing produces heat. One tester noted, “The grill maxed out our infrared thermometer when measuring output power.” The trick is to harness that substantial power to create a lasting and consistent grilling area that cooks at your desired temp without burning. This open fire design provides a few separate levels for you to select from, raising your grill surface away or lowering it toward the flame. The cooking grate is also easy to remove when you need to add additional charcoal or wood chips. You'll find plenty of space to cook for a small gathering, plus a square-shaped design that prevents food from falling into the flames below. The Takibi also comes with a large canvas carry bag for easy travel, thanks to two large shoulder straps that help distribute the weight.
SPECIFICATIONS
Heat/Power Source
Charcoal / wood chips
Total BTU
N/A
Weight (Per Manufacturer)
32.0 lbs
Measured Cooking Surface Area
243 sq in
Number of Burners
N/A
Since the Snow Peak Takibi Fire & Grill lacks the consistency and convenience of propane, this is not likely to be your everyday (or perhaps even weekly) grill. Whether fueled with wood or charcoal, it provides an opportunity to linger with family and friends around the grill, both before and after dinner. Yet even with a fold-and-pack design, this 32+ pound grill isn't the easiest option for distance travel since the carry bag is so heavy on the shoulder. Also, if you're looking for wind resistance, you won't find it here. The ventilation circles in the grill design, along with the slots between the legs, allow wind to have its way with the open flame, significantly affecting the temperature and creating a potential fire hazard. Issues aside, this is a nice choice for anyone seeking the ambiance of a fireplace plus a slow-cooking centerpiece to gather around with family and friends. But when you care more about the final result of your grilled dinner than a cozy atmosphere, the Weber Traveler can't be beat.
The Snow Peak Takibi Fire & Grill offers a very niche and luxurious outdoor experience, gathering family and friends around a beautiful, well-built, and portable design before and after the food is ready to eat.
The Solaire Everywhere infrared grill is a unique product on our roster that excels in very specific areas, making it a fairly specialized option that will appeal most to heavy meat eaters. First, it is very compact, with a tightly fitting construction that makes it easy to carry and quiet in transit, as nothing jiggles about. A high-powered ceramic “flameless” burner sits below a thoughtfully designed grate with V-shaped bars. “I found this grill delivers high heat at a fast pace,” says lead tester Trish Matheny. "That makes this grill ideal for preparing high-quality cuts of red meat that require nothing more than a touch of flame." In fact, we found the infrared heat of the Solaire Everywhere delivers the most perfectly cooked steak of any grill in our review.
SPECIFICATIONS
Heat/Power Source
Liquid propane / infrared
Total BTU
14,000
Weight (Per Manufacturer)
15.0 lbs
Measured Cooking Surface Area
135 sq in
Number of Burners
1
Unfortunately, the uncompromising high-heat of the Solaire Everywhere comes with tradeoffs. To start, its grill top has only enough space for one or two steaks at a time. Next, it is extremely pricey. The cost is nearly on par with the price of our favorite full-sized grill, the Weber Traveler (although, to be fair, other niche designs, like the Traeger Ranger Pellet, cost about the same). Finally, its most notable problem is that it lacks a low-heat option. “Although the heat is technically adjustable, I would describe the Solaire's settings as 'High' to 'Extremely High,” says one tester. Beyond that, the lid is useless. While it aids in carrying the grill, it cannot be closed while cooking. So, while the Solaire Everywhere does a great job of cooking steaks, it makes it nearly impossible to cook other foods, like vegetables, very well. While substantially larger than the Solaire, the Coleman Roadtrip 285 is a nice propane option for those who want low-heat control when grilling and a larger cooking area. An electric model like the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill & Smoker will bump up your control choices even more.
The Solaire Everywhere is ready to grill in a matter of minutes making this an efficient and highly portable option for those interested in the high heat infrared grilling technology.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Compare Product Specifications
Specifications
Weber Traveler
Coleman Roadtrip 285
Cuisinart CGG-306 Chef's Style
nomadiQ
Ninja Woodfire Outdoor & Smoker with Thermometer
Weber Q 1200
Traeger Ranger Pellet
Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal
Snow Peak Takibi Fire &
Cuisinart Grillster
Solaire Everywhere
Elite Gourmet 12" Electric Indoor
Cuisinart Venture Gas
Char-Broil Grill2Go X200
Char-Broil 240
Cuisinart All Foods Roll-Away
Cuisinart Petite Gourmet
Char-Broil Gas
Casus Biodegradable Bamboo
Cuisinart Charcoal
Hitchfire Forge 15
Weber Smokey Joe 14
Awards
Best Overall Portable Grill
Best Cooking Performance for the Money
Favorite Pack-and-Carry Grill
Best Versatile Performance
Best Tabletop Grill
Best Charcoal Grill
Best Dual Function Grill and Fire Pit
Best Value in a Smaller Grill
Best Infrared Grill
Heat/Power Source
Liquid propane
Liquid propane
Liquid propane
Liquid propane
Electric with optional pellets for flavor
Liquid propane
Pellet with electric temperature controls
Charcoal
Charcoal / wood chips
Liquid propane
Liquid propane / infrared
Electric
Liquid propane
Liquid propane / infrared
Liquid propane
Liquid propane
Liquid propane
Liquid propane
Charcoal
Charcoal
Liquid propane
Charcoal
Total BTU
13,000
20,000
20,000
9,200
N/A
8,500
16,000
N/A
N/A
8,000
14,000
N/A
9,000
9,500
10,000
15,000
5,500
11,000
N/A
N/A
15,000
N/A
Weight
(Per Manufacturer)
49.0 lbs
49.0 lbs
22.0 lbs
12.0 lbs
31.0 lbs
31.0 lbs
54.0 lbs
14.9 lbs
32.0 lbs
10.0 lbs
15.0 lbs
6.0 lbs
20.0 lbs
22.0 lbs
28.2 lbs
45.0 lbs
17.0 lbs
3.0 lbs
2.2 lbs
4.2 lbs
70.0 lbs
9.5 lbs
Measured Cooking Surface Area
390 sq in
285 sq in
275 sq in
226 sq in
180 sq in
189 sq in
176 sq in
140 sq in
243 sq in
148 sq in
135 sq in
144 sq in
154 sq in
187 sq in
225 sq in
240 sq in
145 sq in
216 sq in
88 sq in
143 sq in
355 sq in
147 sq in
Number of Burners
1
3
2
2
N/A
1
N/A
N/A
N/A
1
1
N/A
1
1
1
1
1
1
N/A
N/A
2
N/A
Grill material
Porcelain-enameled cast iron
Porcelain-coated cast iron
Stainless steel
Ceramic-coated, non-stick
Non-stick grill grate
Porcelain-enameled cast iron
Porcelain-coated steel grate and cast iron griddle
Plated steel
Stainless steel
Enameled steel
Stainless steel
Stainless steel
Porcelain-enameled cast iron
Stainless steel
Aluminum with porcelain finish
Porcelain-coated cast iron
Porcelain-enameled cast iron
Porcelain coated wire
Bamboo
Chrome-plated metal
Stainless steel
Plated steel
Measured Packed Size - Dimensions
44.0"L x 23.0"D x 13.0"H
39.0"L x 14.0"D x 19.0"H
22.0"L x 14.0"D x 18.5"H
14.0"L x 5.0"D x 16.0"H
23.6"L x 18.6"D x 13.3"H
26.0"L x 15.0"D x 14.0"H (side tables closed)
21.0"L x 20.0"D x 13.0"H
21.0"L x 12.2"D x 14.5"H
22.0"L x 21.5"D x 2.0"H
20.5"L x 12.0"D x 10.2"H
21.0"L x 13.0"D x 8.0"H
17.0"L x 17.0"D x 4.0"H
16.0"L x 12.5"D x 11.0"H
23.5"L x 15.0"D x 14.0"H
22.0"L x 17.0"D x 14.0"H
44.0"L x 21.0"D x 23.0"H
28.0"L x 17.5"D x 9.0"H
24.0"L x 12.0"D x 15.0"H
12.0"L x 9.0"D x 4.0"H
14.5"L x 14.5"D x 15.0"H
37.0"L x 21.0"D x 17.0"H (excluding hitch arm)
14.2"L x 14.5"D x 17.0"H
Measured Packed Size - Volume
6.5 cu ft
6.0 cu ft
3.3 cu ft
1.75 cu ft
3.1 cu ft
3.2 cu ft
3 cu ft
2.2 cu ft
0.5 cu ft
1.5 cu ft
1.3 cu ft
0.7 cu ft
2.0 cu ft
2.9 cu ft
3.1 cu ft
12.3 cu ft
1.3 cu ft
2.5 cu ft
1.5 cu ft
1.8 cu ft
7.6 cu ft
2.0 cu ft
Piezo Ignitor
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Electric
Electric
Electric
No
No
Yes
Electric
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
Yes
No
The Weber Traveler is so user-friendly, even Sam (our lead taste tester), could confidently crank up the temperature dial.
Credit: Trish Matheny
How We Tested
Our thorough testing process began with scouring the internet for the latest and greatest products across the portable grill market. Next, we narrowed our selection to create a manageable yet comprehensive list of the top models. We bought all these products at retail cost to allow us to conduct an extended, objectively honest, and comparative review. These review editors rigorously assessed these grills and distributed them to friends to gather a fresh perspective. Throughout the intensive testing phase — which lasted months — we grilled piles of food, measured temperatures, grilled out in heavy winds, and burned through gallons of propane and piles of coal, all in the pursuit of an authoritative review of the market's best portable grills. Learn more about how we test portable grills.
Measuring temperature using an infrared thermometer helps gauge the true capabilities of these grills.
Credit: Trish Matheny
We break down the overall score into five key metrics:
Output Power (25% of overall score weighting)
Control (25% weighting)
Portability (20% weighting)
Cooking Area (20% weighting)
Wind Resistance (10% weighting)
Why Trust GearLab
Over the past seven years, our experts have purchased more than 35 of the best portable grills to test side by side. We tasked long-time OGL review editor Jed Porter with heading up our analysis of portable grills. When you ask Jed's friends what his favorite food is, they'll likely answer either “chips and salsa” or “meat.” Jed regularly cooks 1-2 meals a day outside over an open flame, near and far, rain or shine. At various times throughout his career as a mountain guide, he has catered for groups of up to 20 hungry, adventurous clients.
Adding to our team's expertise in this category are Aaron Rice, Ross Patton, and Trish Matheny. Aaron has worked in and around kitchens for the better portion of a decade. As an outdoor educator, he has also taught many a hungry teenager the art of creating delicious meals with small stoves. A long time ago, Ross's dad was the head chef at the Steak Pit, arguably the best place to get a perfectly seared filet mignon in the state of Utah. After learning how to grill from his dad, Ross followed in his footsteps, working in the kitchens of several restaurants in the Lake Tahoe area. Trish spent many years living in the Tetons, where she balanced her time between split-boarding remote peaks in the Greater Yellowstone and managing a small bakery in Driggs, Idaho. After relocating to the Eastern Sierra in recent years, she not only cooks regularly for her Search and Rescue crew, but she also picks up jobs as a private chef for adventuresome clients, often preparing gourmet meals for large groups in remote locations. All four reviewers tapped into a network of friends and family who also happen to be culinary experts, from culinary arts professors to professional chefs to BBQ business owners.
Our testing team put in long hours in front of these grills so they could thoughtfully evaluate each design and provide results to assist you in your next purchase.
Analysis and Test Results
A portable grill could be just mobile enough to load it in and out of your truck bed with a friend, or it might be compact enough to fit inside a large backpack. Such a wide range of sizes and shapes means comparing “portable grills” presents a real challenge to our testers. But that's why we take time to analyze the entire marketplace and select the best options available today. We then put ourselves in your shoes and run each model through an array of creative, real-life cooking scenarios. This helped us evaluate each product's overall performance and function, as well as the finer details and relative strengths and weaknesses, to help you pick out the best possible portable grill to meet your needs.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
The value of your portable grill depends on your cooking needs and your intended usage. A basic, more affordable grill might get you through a backyard bash, but a more expensive product will tend to last longer, even under more rigorous or extensive use. Simple grilling, like burgers and dogs, can be done on any portable grill. But if you would like the option to sear a steak and slow-cook chicken on the same grate, you'll likely only find such features on higher-quality models. Similarly, the least expensive grills don't offer the maximum heat output or the control to cook more complicated foods.
The Economics of Coal vs. Propane vs. Pellets
While the all-natural allure of charcoal might be viewed as a more sustainable option than propane, these grills tend to burn through coals pretty quickly. This is an important factor to consider when choosing a grill, particularly considering the cost of replacement fuel. Classic charcoal briquettes are the most common, but we recommend all-natural lump charcoal, which may be harder to start but burns hotter and offers a higher-quality flavor without any additives or chemicals. Pellet grills, or those that offer pellet boxes for smoking, burn wood pellets that are generally sold in 20-pound bags and cost a bit more than a similar-sized bag of charcoal. These are dense and highly efficient. We have found that we can cook at least five times as long with a standard bag of pellets, including an all-day smoking or two.
Grill size isn't necessarily tied to value — in fact, some of the smallest grills in our review are among some of the most expensive. When considering carrying dimensions, grilling surface, and overall performance, the more average-sized grills tend to fall into a more reasonable price bracket. Although there is a broad range in this category, a few of the lower-priced models stand out. The Elite Gourmet 12" Electric is one of the most affordable options we tested. It easily sears meat, offers a ton of wind resistance, and its compact size makes it perfect for the countertop or picnic table (when electricity is available) or easy storage inside your camper.
The Cuisinart Grillster has the power you need to sear steaks, but due to its lower-end price point, it lacks the overall control of better grills. Cuisinart steps it up with the CGG-306 Chef's Style, which offers a ton of output power plus the control of two separate burners that each provide low to high settings. The Char-Broil Grill2Go is slightly more expensive but cooks with the quality of an infrared burner and includes additional features like a thermometer built into the lid. If you're looking for a larger propane grill, the Weber Traveler is a greater investment but offers a top-of-the-line grilling experience that's on par with many non-portable patio grills.
Lining up grills side-by-side to test the backyard ultra-classics, hamburgers and portabella-burgers.
Credit: Aaron Rice
Output Power
For this metric, we had to consider how different methods of heat production compared among different grills across the board. For gas, we looked at the number of BTUs (British thermal units) each product generates. For charcoal, electric, and pellet options that cannot be measured the same way, we drew upon evidence from testing and an infrared thermometer to measure internal grill temperatures, along with assessing the advertised wattage and power maximums. We also factored in the number of burners of each product, the grill body's heat insulation, and the volume of the coal bed.
In the realm of larger portable propane grills, the Coleman Roadtrip 285 is a cut above the rest when it comes to output power. At 20,000 BTU, this model puts most of the others to shame. U-shaped burners are fairly common with this grill type, but the Roadtrip 285's burner configuration evenly distributes the heat around the entire oval-shaped grill surface. The Weber Traveler is a great example of how BTU output doesn't always correlate to better cooking performance. With only 13,000 BTUs, the oval-shaped design heats up relatively quickly while maintaining a steady and consistent temperature across the entire grilling surface. Ultimately, we found it to be superior to the Roadtrip 285 in terms of overall cooking performance.
The Weber Traveler combines a U-shape burner and 13,000 BTUs for substantial and consistent output power.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Another grill that boasts 20,000 BTUs but comes in a much smaller package is the Cuisinart CGG-306 Chef's Style that offers two separate 10,000 BTU burners that combine for excellent output power as well as exceptional control.
Two separate burners combine to produce 20,000 BTUs within the packable table-top model of the Cuisinart CGG-306 Chef's Style Portable.
Credit: Trish Matheny
For smaller gas-powered grills, the Weber Q 1200 puts out a rather modest 8,500 BTU — not the most in our review, but with an efficient U-shaped burner and an insulating lid, this grill offers top cooking performance. The least powerful model is the Cuisinart Petite Gourmet that manages only 5,500 BTUs, but keep in mind that it only weighs 17 pounds and has half the cooking area of the bigger units. Even with its lower output, the Petit Gourmet didn't have a problem grilling anything we wanted; it didn't take any longer to cook than the other contenders, and it used the least amount of fuel. This points to an issue in assessing just the raw BTU score: a certain amount of heat over a smaller surface area will be hotter than the same amount of heat spread across a larger surface area.
While the Petite Gourmet doesn't offer the most output power, it is half the size, yet offers more gas efficiency than its high-powered competitors.
Credit: Trish Matheny
On the charcoal side, insulation plays a much more important role in output power and efficiency. The Cuisinart Portable Charcoal and Weber Go-Anywhere are very similar in terms of coal bed volume, but the Go-Anywhere scores much higher thanks to its cast iron construction.
While we couldn't rely on BTU-ratings for charcoal grills, our reviewers utilized an infrared thermometer to accurately test the temperature of these grill surfaces.
Credit: Aaron Rice
Another style that's not to be missed is the infrared grill. The Solaire Everywhere and the Char-Broil Grill2Go x200 pack quite a punch when it comes to output power. While the Char-Broil only supplies 9,500 BTUs, the Solaire Everywhere provides 14,000 BTUs, making it our overall favorite for searing a steak to perfection. The only caveat to this power is that it makes slow-cooking poultry and veggies nearly impossible without burning.
Reaching 450F in less than 5 minutes makes the Solaire Everywhere one of the more efficient models that we tested, although the 14,000 BTU output power makes it difficult to slow cook poultry and veggies without burning.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Effective Heating
Higher BTUs produce more heat, but it is challenging to determine the heat output from the BTU rating alone. Grill size, construction materials, and design all contribute to how much heat will be produced on the actual grilling surface.
Our ranking of heat output also considered each manufacturer's BTU reporting, grill surface area, and lid sealing and construction. For the most part, the scoring of the heat output follows manufacturer claims, but we made some exceptions based on our observations. For instance, while the Weber Q 1200 only claims 8,500 BTUs, in practice, it operates at hotter temperatures and maintains that heat over a larger cook surface compared to other similar models. The infrared-cooking capability of the Solaire Everywhere puts out 14,000 BTUs and confidently sears a steak faster than anything else.
U-shaped burners, as found on the Weber Q 1200, are the design of choice to efficiently deliver heat across the extent of a grill surface.
Credit: Aaron Rice
Control
Control is the criterion that most distinctly separates the highest performers from the rest of the contenders. For gas and electric, this metric was scored based on the number of burners each product has and whether they can be adjusted to high, medium, and low temperatures. For charcoal, we assessed how easy it was to maneuver the coal bed to create heat zones. Whenever pellet grills have been included in our lineup, we studied the user interface and considered the details of the startup and shutdown process. For all grills, we consider whether the grilling surface maintains a consistent temperature, whether it includes a thermometer or push-button ignition, and how well both perform. There are advantages and disadvantages to a grill surface that naturally creates different temperature zones.
If you're cooking only one type of food that covers the entire grilling surface, then you will want to have consistent heat throughout. If you are cooking a variety of foods all at once, you might prefer different temperature zones. To test the distribution of heat across a grill, we grilled different types of food in different corners of the grill.
The heat distribution of the Char-Broil 240 grill is not particularly even, likely because the distribution cap does not extend to the farthest reaches at either the front or back.
Credit: Aaron Rice
To illustrate this, we cooked plain white bread and photographed the result to help visualize the distribution of heat across these grill tops. We also took into consideration whether the lid was big enough for closed grilling, how easy the grease trap was to use, remove, and clean, and if the regulator provided a snug or loose fit.
While the Solaire Everywhere doesn't feature a removable grease trap, it does offer a sturdy regulator attachment for controlling the temperatures.
Credit: Trish Matheny
The Coleman Roadtrip 285 tops the list of our favorite propane models when it comes to grill control and temperature regulation. Three dials control the different zones, but all of those heat zones overlap. The middle dial controls a burner that spans the length of the whole grill, while the other two dials control an additional burner on each side. With all of them on, it evenly heats the entire cooking area. The Roadtrip 285 produced better results from our white bread heat mapping test than any other grill we've tested. Though the Weber Traveler does not feature a triple burner configuration, it does feature an accurate thermometer on the lid and a single adjustable dial that offers a wide range of settings.
It would be very difficult to beat the white bread heat distribution test results produced by the Coleman Roadtrip 285.
Credit: Ross Patton
The Weber Q 1200 is another solid model in this category due to the adjustability of its control knob and a sound electronic ignition system. We appreciate the naturally non-stick porcelain-enameled grilling surface and the fact that the cast iron grates distribute a consistent temperature across the entire cooking surface. The domed lid of the Q 1200 has plenty of clearance for closed grilling, the grease trap is easy to remove and clean, and the integrated thermometer helps regulate internal air temperatures with impressive accuracy.
Single-burner options, like the Cuisinart Grillster, often don't afford the same amount of control over temperature zones as other multi-burner grills.
Credit: Aaron Rice
The Cuisinart CGG-306 Chef's Style Portable grill is a great option for those seeking exceptional control. This propane grill fired up immediately, offering two separate burners boasting 10,000 BTUs each, with low to high settings for grilling a variety of foods. The separate burners, along with the full lid design, helped our testing team achieve excellent control, even while searing meat and slow-cooking veggies on the same grilling surface.
Two independent burners with low to high settings make it easy for the Cuisinart CGG-306 Chef's Style Portable grill to provide enough control to grill a variety of different foods.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Of the one-burner grills, the mid-sized models offer a wide range of control options. On all that we currently include in the review, the knob and regulators allow a clearer and wider range of burner output. Control, then, is mostly a function of burner shape, grill shape, and the relative interaction of these two features. Large burners, relative to the grill size, distribute heat more evenly to the grill top. The large surface of the Cuisinart All Foods Roll-Away gives the cook multiple heat zones to work with while grilling. The infrared burner of the Solaire Everywhere heats the entire grill surface to about the same temperature. This is good for cooking large quantities of a single food, but not so good if you're hoping to cook different foods at different rates.
The infrared grilling surface of the Solaire Everywhere is perfect for searing meat but problematic for cooking veggies without burning.
Credit: Trish Matheny
It is important to mention here that cooking with charcoal is very different from cooking over a gas burner. Charcoal is an active heat source, meaning that it can be adjusted — stoked to increase heat or smothered to decrease it — but requires constant care to regulate temperature. The upside is that the potential for control is very high because charcoal gives you virtually unlimited ability to manage various heat zones across the grilling surface. The downside is that this control is not guaranteed: there is a significant learning curve to master this technique, and it's more difficult than adjusting the dial of a gas grill.
Notice the three different heat zones possible with the Weber Go-Anywhere charcoal grill. From the left: medium heat to evenly brown the steak; high heat to blister peppers; low heat on to caramelize the onion.
Credit: Aaron Rice
Among the charcoal models, the Weber Go-Anywhere scores top marks for control. Thanks to a relatively deep basin, we were able to build and stoke a substantial volume of coal to achieve the exact heat we desired. Since the area of the basin exactly matches the surface area of the grill, we were then able to spread out those coals to create targeted heat zones.
The deep basin of the Weber Go-Anywhere grill combines with the ability to spread out the coals evenly for excellent control.
Grilling with real wood pellets is also very different from propane. Pellet grills or those with smoke boxes generally require electricity, which automatically monitors and releases the amount of pellets required to maintain the temperature setting you requested. Pellet grills offer easy control: simply load the correct amount of wood pellets into the hopper, and the temp will be digitally controlled until your food is ready. The Traeger Ranger is a pellet grill option that requires quite a lot of pellets to maintain the open flame and flavor your supper, while the Ninja Woodfire is an electric grill that offers the option to add real wood pellets for adding woodfire smoked flavor to the food inside.
The Traeger Ranger Pellet grill features digitally monitored temperature control that's consistent and easy to use.
Credit: Trish Matheny
The Cuisinart Petite Gourmet is one of the smallest grills in our tests, and the size does affect control. This model has an elongated burner beneath a rectangular grate. It has a fairly uniform temperature, but the shape of the grate and burner gives you the option to move your food around to different temperature zones in case you need some range for different foods. The Cuisinart Venture is a slightly bigger cooking area with more BTUs, yet offers a similar performance in regards to overall control.
Though slightly bigger than the Cuisinart Petite, the Cuisinart Venture has a similar performance in terms of overall control with the u-shaped burner design.
Credit: Trish Matheny
A notable mention for an electric option is the 1200-watt Elite Gourmet 12" that gave a solid performance, featuring a single temperature dial ranging from 200°F to 450°F. Though testing with an infrared thermometer revealed that this grill runs hotter than the temperature on the control dial — up to 100°F hotter on the high end, especially with the tempered glass lid on — we were impressed with how evenly the heat distributed across the non-stick cooking surface.
The Elite Gourmet is an electronic option for grilling that is complete with an easy-to-use temperature dial ranging from 200F to 450F.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Portability
To determine scores in this metric, we loaded each product into vehicles, took them to picnics and campsites, and grilled gratifying culinary concoctions. During these excursions, we took into account overall size, weight, construction materials, and availability of wheels, stands, or lid latches. We also evaluated the security of their closures, the noise during transport, and the cleanliness on the ride home.
The nomadiQ grill design received the highest marks in our comprehensive review when it comes to portability, thanks to its lightweight, sleek design with a handy shoulder strap and ergonomic topside handle for easy pick up. The nomadiQ features two locking mechanisms on each side that you release before pulling the grilling grates into place. Packing up is just as easy; simply release those same locking mechanisms before folding the grill back into place. Weighing only 12 pounds and measuring only 5 inches in width, the nomadiQ is perfect for those seeking to maximize storage space and portability.
The Nomadiq grill features a uniquely portable design that's easy to use and transport between locations.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Other smaller options include the Petit Gourmet, which has telescoping legs that fold up neatly and make it easy to carry in one hand. The Solaire and the Cuisinart Grillster both carry cleanly and easily, kind of like a small suitcase. Models like this are easy to carry into the park to find your ideal picnic spot. As with any grill, if you take the time to clean it before transporting it, you will find there's less mess. The Cuinsart Venture is another option that's easy to carry with one hand thanks to a substantial and functional handle on the top of the design.
The large handle and extra storage in the plastic section on the bottom of the Cuisinart Venture upped its score when it came to portability.
Credit: Trish Matheny
The 31-pound Weber Q 1200 is still surprisingly portable due to its useful handles. Special mention should be given to the fact that it can be purchased as a tabletop model (like we did) or can easily be integrated into a separate wheelable, folding stand for enhanced parking lot convenience.
Even though the Weber Q 1200 neatly folds up (albeit into a not-so-compact package), the lack of a lid latch is perhaps more annoying than anything when considering the portability of this grill.
Credit: Aaron Rice
The most notable portability attribute of the Char-Broil Grill2Go is that one can fit three propane canisters inside its closed lid during transport. Few of the other top-rated grills have space beneath their lids for even one canister, so when space is tight, this can be convenient.
The Char-Broil Grill2Go is unique in that, for transport, you can carry fuel cans inside the lid. We like this. Surprisingly few others allow this.
Credit: Jediah Porter
Weighing just over 30 pounds, the Snow Peak Takibi isn't the lightest option we tested, but it is easily packed into an oversized canvas carry bag that offers two thick shoulder straps to help distribute the weight when moving it. Although too heavy for distances, this design is easy to maneuver over limited stretches and can be easily stored between outings.
Mik Metzler shows how easy it is to pack the 30+ pound Snow Peak Takibi, thanks to the over-sized canvas bag complete with two thick shoulder straps.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Of the wheeled options that we tested, we want to give a special shout-out to the Weber Traveler, which is so easy to use and transport that you can do it with only one hand (and foot). The grill also features a lock that securely fastens it into its compact and portable position, while the long handle and durable wheels make upright portability a breeze. When it's time to load it into your vehicle, another large handle on the other side of the grill makes it much easier to pick it up and place it into your pickup. However, we also recognize that this 49-pound grill is large, and we understand that this alone might be a limiting factor for some people. When directly compared to the cumbersome and awkward portability of the top-heavy Coleman 285, the Traveler is clearly superior thanks to a more thoughtful and user-friendly design.
Though one of the heaviest models that we tested, the portability of the Weber Traveler is difficult to beat.
Credit: Trish Matheny
The Elite Gourmet measures only 17 inches at its widest point and weighs only six pounds, making it one of the most compact options we tested. However, as an electric grill, it is still tethered to a power outlet (of some sort). But if you have limited indoor space and still want to grill, this petite grill top is well worth your consideration.
At only five pounds, The Elite Gourmet is one of the lightest grill options that we tested.
Credit: Trish Matheny
At 2.2 pounds, the Casus Biodegradable Bamboo is one of the most packable options that we tested. However, we docked the score because the grill was difficult to burn after use. This meant we would have to “pack out” the remaining briquettes and Oxylite material to avoid “leaving a trace.”
The biodegradable bamboo design of the Casus Biodegradable Bamboo grill is very lightweight but not as packable if grilling in the backcountry means packing out the remaining grill portions that do not burn up after use.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Cooking Area
The size of the cooking surface determined scores in this metric, the surface material, and any coatings, as well as whether the grill has any side tables or any other added features. Additional features and functions include a grill grate that can be turned over and made into a skillet, or bonus features like a warming rack or smoker tray. We also took into account how simple or challenging each contender was to clean.
The single-rack model with the largest grilling area is the Weber Traveler. This grill features an impressive 390 square inches of cooking space across its porcelain-enameled cast iron grate. This is plenty of room to cook for a good-sized backyard BBQ or while car camping with a group of your closest friends. We especially appreciated the easy cleanup afterward, thanks to the smooth cooking surface.
A substantial amount of cooking area along with cast iron grates made grilling and cleanup on the Weber Traveler a breeze. The porcelain-enameled cast iron made a fantastic cooking surface that was easy to clean.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Another standout model in this category is the Coleman Roadtrip 285 that features –- as the name suggests –- 285 square inches of grilling surface. Though the cast iron grate is not as smooth as the Traveler and therefore causes food to stick even when preheated, the bottom of the grill's interior is easy to wipe clean thanks to an even surface.
The Coleman Roadtrip 285 was lots of room for lots of tasty food.
Credit: Ross Patton
While not the traditional propane grill, the Snow Peak Takibi features an excellent grilling area that is easily lifted away from the flame thanks to two functional handles on each side of the grate. It presents 243 square inches of ample grilling space, while the square-shaped design also discourages food from falling between the grates and being lost to the flames below. This is an elegant grill that combines the ambiance of an outdoor fireplace with the option to grill a variety of foods over wood or charcoal.
The Snow Peak Takibi offers aesthetics and function with the beautiful stainless steel cooking area that is easily removed from the flames.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Another impressive cooking area, especially considering its packability, is the nomadiQ propane grill that opens up from a 5-inch packed width to offer 226 square inches of cooking area — plenty of space to grill for a small group.
The Nomadiq propane grill features 226 square inch of cooking area that's perfect for small groups.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Wind Resistance
Does the burner blow out in the wind? Does the lid get easily slammed shut? Does the grease trap fly away? Is the whole system sturdy? These are all things that were taken into consideration when scoring all the contenders for this metric.
If you're in the market for a propane grill and you don't want to worry about your flame getting blown out, our top recommendation is the Weber Traveler. We found that between the multi-hole design of the burners and the way that they are recessed into the tub of the grill body, this model's flames are very hard to extinguish. The low-profile lid of this grill is also vented with down-turned covers to release pressure inside the lid without allowing wind to have any effect on the flame.
The Weber Traveler is a perfect example of high performance (even when grilling on windy days in exposed locations) thanks to the fully enclosed grilling area and hooded vents on the back of the lid.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Wind resistance was another particularly strong characteristic of the Elite Gourmet. It features an electrically heated cooking surface with a lid that covers the entire cooking space. As far as we can tell, this electric grill appeared to be completely unfazed by convective heat loss.
The Elite Gourmet is a great choice for grilling in high winds thanks to the tempered glass lid that fully encloses the non-stick grill plate.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Two other excellent wind-resistant options that are also powered by electricity are the Ninja Woodfire and the Traeger Ranger. The Ninja provides a fully enclosed grill space, restricting airflow to provide consistent temperature control and an optional woodfire smoke box, which uses a convection fan to infuse the food with a slow-seal smoky flavor. In contrast, the Traeger ventilates out he back and side of the grill, protecting the open flame without allowing wind to interfere. Both grills feature sturdy designs with impressive grilling surfaces, but are also heavy and require electricity to operate, limiting their portability.
Grills with smoking capabilities, like the Traeger Ranger and Ninja Woodfire, may be wind resistant, but they also require electricity to work.
The Cuisinart All Foods Roll-Away scored the lowest in wind resistance. We grew frustrated at the number of times we had to relight this model in high winds. The Weber Q 1200 comes with a disposable aluminum drip tray insert that you can place in the more permanent drip tray. This is nice for aiding with cleanup, but it's not very wind-resistant, and in testing, it regularly ended up on the ground after flying away in windy conditions. This can be remedied by removing the disposable part or just by putting a rock in it. Another poor example of wind resistance is the Solaire Everywhere, which is meant to be operated with the lid open, allowing the wind to affect the temperature within.
Infrared models like the Solaire Everywhere are meant to be operated with the lid open, making them a poor example when it comes to wind resistance.
Credit: Trish Matheny
While the Snow Peak Takibi isn't going to provide any wind resistance — in fact, it could even create a fire hazard in some conditions — ventilation can be useful when starting the coal or wind chip fire for cooking. It also allows the grill to double as a portable outdoor fireplace.
The open flame and ventilation panels of the Takibi offer little to no wind resistance yet also create the ambiance of a portable outdoor fireplace.
Credit: Trish Matheny
How to Pick the Best Portable Grill
We've selected five different considerations to help simplify your next grill purchase.
We've selected five different considerations to help inform your next portable grill purchase.
Credit: Trish Matheny
What Fuel Type is Best?
Deciding on the type of fuel for your next grill comes down to several key considerations: convenience, flavor, and price. A propane gas grill is often the most convenient setup and easiest to clean. On the other hand, a charcoal grill provides a more pronounced flavor and can often reach hotter temperatures for searing. Still, you'll need to allow plenty of time for yours to cool before transporting, and during wildfire season, many destinations will not allow an open flame.
Other niche options to consider are pellet grills, known for their smoky, wood-fired flavor, and electric grills, which can be the easiest and most versatile options of all. The only downside to either of these is that they require an electric outlet to operate and generally sit at the higher end of the cost spectrum. Also, for pellet grills, you will need to purchase wood pellets, which often need to be specific to the manufacturer.
The Traeger Ranger Pellet provides smokey flavor from real wood and is powered by electricity.
Credit: Trish Matheny
What Size Do You Need?
If you plan on taking your grill camping or tailgating on weekends, a smaller grill would be ideal. If you need a grill capable of cooking for groups and events, or simply just want a backyard grill that you can move around easily, larger options exist. Weights can range from just a few pounds to well above eighty. When deciding on your next portable grill, consider your transportation and storage capabilities along with your desired use. Also, take a look at the cooking/grilling area. This will help to understand how much food can fit at a given time.
Smaller portable grills like the Cuisinart Venture can be the perfect option when grilling for couples or smaller groups.
Credit: Trish Matheny
A larger grill area can accommodate more food at once and provide more room for other dishes.
Credit: Ross Patton
What Features are Important to You?
You will find many useful features out there: folding side tables, digital thermometers, folding legs, and smoker boxes, just to name a few. While some features may simply be for convenience, others, such as a digital thermometer, are essential if you plan on slow-cooking BBQ with precision. Consider what you plan to cook and hone in on the features that will help you get there.
The Snow Peak Takibi Fire & Grill is a very unique and niche design that forgoes the convenience of propane for a different grilling experience that prioritizes both function and aesthetics in addition to providing a gathering place for family and friends.
Credit: Trish Matheny
How Much Cooking Control Do You Need?
The ability to regulate and fine-tune how much heat is being produced can be critical for the cooking you plan to do. On a gas or electric grill, identify how many burners and temperature adjustments are available. Certain foods, such as fish and vegetables, can be overcooked if the temperature is too high. Alternatively, certain foods benefit from high-temperature searing and require high heat to achieve the desired taste.
The nomadiQ grill features two independently controlled burners for those who prefer to cook foods at different temperatures.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Conclusion
All that now stands between you and mobile grilling is making your final choice and picking up a big pile of grillable grub. Crack that first tailgate can, ponder our comparative assessments, and pull the trigger on your next favorite home chef tool. In addition to hashing out the best portable grills, we've tested hundreds of products in our camping kitchen reviews, including camping tables and camping coffee for your outdoor forays. We also have reviews highlighting the best camping stoves, top-rated axes, and much more.
We hope our testing perspectives and recommendations help you to find the best portable grills based on your specific needs.
