You’re probably frustrated with portable grills that underperform when you need them most. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or camping with friends, you’ll want a grill that won’t let you down. We’ve tested three models that combine portability with serious cooking power. But which one’s right for your needs?
Quick Overview
- Weber Q1200 weighs only 29 pounds with 8,500 BTUs, making it ideal for portable grilling without sacrificing performance capability.
- Royal Gourmet GD401 features 4 burners delivering 12,000 BTUs each with 610 square inches of cooking surface for larger meals.
- Charbroil Classic 2-Burner offers 20,000 BTUs total and 280 square inches of space, grilling up to 12 burgers efficiently.
- All three models include side burners for simultaneous meal preparation, enhancing versatility and cooking functionality for comprehensive outdoor dining.
- Stainless steel construction and porcelain-coated grates across models ensure durability, corrosion resistance, and easy cleanup for long-lasting performance.
| Charbroil Classic 2-Burner Propane Gas Grill (463672817-P2) |
| Best Overall | Total BTU Output: 28,000 BTUs | Cooking Surface Area: 280 square inches | Fuel Type: Liquid propane gas (20-lb tank) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Royal Gourmet GD401 Portable Propane Gas Grill Griddle Combo |
| Most Versatile | Total BTU Output: 48,000 BTUs | Cooking Surface Area: 610 square inches | Fuel Type: Liquid propane gas (20-lb tank) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Weber Q1200 Portable Gas Grill for Travel & Camping |
| Most Portable | Total BTU Output: 8,500 BTUs | Cooking Surface Area: 189 square inches | Fuel Type: Liquid propane gas (16.4 oz or 20-lb tank with adapter) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Charbroil Classic 2-Burner Propane Gas Grill (463672817-P2)
If you’re looking for a compact grill that doesn’t sacrifice cooking capacity or versatility, the Charbroil Classic 2-Burner is your answer. This stainless steel powerhouse delivers 20,000 BTUs across its main burners and another 8,000 from the side burner, giving you 280 square inches of cooking space. You’ll comfortably grill up to 12 burgers, 6 chicken breasts, or 4 steaks simultaneously. The convective grilling system guarantees even heat distribution, while the removable grease tray makes cleanup effortless. Its integrated cart securely holds your propane tank, and the large side shelf accommodates accessories and Gear Trax organizers. Weighing just 37.5 pounds, you’ll appreciate its portability without compromising performance.
- Total BTU Output:28,000 BTUs
- Cooking Surface Area:280 square inches
- Fuel Type:Liquid propane gas (20-lb tank)
- Customer Rating:4.2 out of 5 stars
- Cooking Grates Material:Porcelain-coated wire grates
- Portable Design:Integrated cart with tank storage
- Additional Feature:Integrated propane tank rack
- Additional Feature:Large side shelf storage
- Additional Feature:Removable grease tray liner
Royal Gourmet GD401 Portable Propane Gas Grill Griddle Combo
The Royal Gourmet GD401 is ideal for those who want versatility without sacrificing portability. You’ll appreciate its dual-zone design, combining a gas grill and griddle in one compact unit. With four 12,000 BTU burners delivering 14,018 watts of heating power, you’ve got 610 square inches of cooking surface to work with. The automatic ignition system gets you cooking quickly, while removable oil management simplifies cleanup. Fold-down legs and locking casters make transportation effortless. Built with durable alloy steel and porcelain-enameled cast iron grates, this grill earns a solid 4.4-star rating from thousands of satisfied users.
- Total BTU Output:48,000 BTUs
- Cooking Surface Area:610 square inches
- Fuel Type:Liquid propane gas (20-lb tank)
- Customer Rating:4.4 out of 5 stars
- Cooking Grates Material:Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates
- Portable Design:Fold-down legs with locking casters
- Additional Feature:Grill and griddle combo
- Additional Feature:Four locking casters mobility
- Additional Feature:Fold-down legs compact storage
Weber Q1200 Portable Gas Grill for Travel & Camping
For adventurers who refuse to compromise on grilling quality while traveling, the Weber Q1200 delivers serious cooking power in a compact package. You’ll appreciate the 8,500 BTU burner’s versatility for searing steaks or cooking delicate fish at lower temperatures. The porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates retain heat exceptionally well, infusing authentic flavor into everything you cook. With 189 square inches of cooking surface, you can grill whole chickens alongside burgers without crowding. The integrated lid thermometer lets you monitor temperatures precisely, while folding side tables provide convenient workspace. Lightweight titanium construction keeps transport manageable, and the pull-out grease pan simplifies cleanup. You’re looking at a genuinely capable grill that won’t weigh down your camping trips.
- Total BTU Output:8,500 BTUs
- Cooking Surface Area:189 square inches
- Fuel Type:Liquid propane gas (16.4 oz or 20-lb tank with adapter)
- Customer Rating:4.7 out of 5 stars
- Cooking Grates Material:Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates
- Portable Design:Lightweight with folding side tables
- Additional Feature:Integrated lid thermometer gauge
- Additional Feature:Compatible with disposable cylinders
- Additional Feature:Split grates combination cooking
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Portable Gas Grill With Side Burner
When you’re shopping for a portable gas grill with a side burner, you’ll want to evaluate how much cooking space you actually need and whether the BTU output delivers enough power for your cooking style. You should also weigh the grill’s portability and weight against your storage space and transport capabilities, while gauging the durability of its materials to guarantee it’ll withstand regular use. Finally, you’ll need to balance the price against the overall value you’re getting—considering features, build quality, and long-term performance—to make the best investment for your grilling needs.
Cooking Space Requirements
One of your most critical decisions involves selecting an appropriate cooking surface area for your portable gas grill. You’ll find options ranging from 189 to over 600 square inches, depending on your needs. If you’re hosting small gatherings, the Charbroil Classic 2-Burner‘s 280 square inches lets you grill up to 12 burgers simultaneously. For larger entertaining or simultaneous meal preparation, consider models like the Royal Gourmet GD401, which offers 610 square inches of cooking space. The side burner amplifies your capabilities, enabling you to boil water or sauté vegetables while grilling. However, remember that larger cooking surfaces require more outdoor space. Assess your available area carefully to guarantee your grill fits comfortably while maintaining portability and convenience.
BTU Output and Power
The cooking power of your portable gas grill hinges on its BTU (British Thermal Unit) output, which directly influences how quickly you’ll heat your cooking surface and sear your food. Most portable grills feature burners averaging 8,000 to 12,000 BTUs each, providing solid grilling performance.
To gauge overall capacity, sum all burner ratings. You’ll want at least 20,000 BTUs across multiple burners for cooking larger meals efficiently. Side burners typically have separate BTU ratings, enabling you to prepare sides simultaneously while grilling your main course.
Higher BTU outputs mean faster heating and superior searing capabilities. However, don’t chase maximum BTUs blindly—match the output to your typical cooking needs and group size. Balanced power distribution across burners matters more than raw numbers alone.
Portability and Weight
While BTU output determines your grill’s cooking power, you’ll also want to evaluate how easily you can move it from place to place. Weight greatly impacts portability—the Weber Q1200’s 29 pounds makes it far more manageable than heavier models like the Royal Gourmet GD401 at 103.6 pounds. Compact dimensions around 20-21 inches wide facilitate easier storage and transport.
Look for foldable or collapsible features, including side tables and legs, which reduce your grill’s footprint for travel. Lightweight materials like cast aluminum enhance portability while maintaining durability, unlike heavier steel constructions that add considerable weight. For campsites and tailgate events, you’ll want a grill that one person can comfortably handle without strain.
Durability and Materials
Since you’ll be transporting and using your portable grill in various environments, you’ll want to prioritize materials that withstand rust, corrosion, and weather damage. Stainless steel offers excellent corrosion resistance, while cast aluminum provides lightweight durability and superior heat retention—making it ideal for portable models.
Look for porcelain-coated grates that prevent food from sticking and simplify cleanup. A powder-coated finish adds an extra protective layer, extending your grill’s lifespan considerably.
When evaluating durability, examine component thickness and quality closely. Thicker materials consistently deliver better performance and longevity. Don’t overlook these construction details; they’re critical indicators of how well your side burner grill will hold up over time and continue performing reliably through countless cooking seasons.
Price and Value
After you’ve settled on a durable grill built to last, it’s time to contemplate what you’ll actually spend and whether that investment makes sense for your needs. Portable gas grills typically range from $100 to over $500, depending on features and construction quality. Don’t forget to budget for propane tanks—roughly $20 for a 20-pound tank.
Evaluate long-term value carefully. Models with superior warranties, like 5-year burner coverage, often cost less over time through reduced repairs. Higher BTU ratings (around 20,000 for main burners) deliver efficient cooking that may justify premium pricing.
Check customer ratings and reviews thoroughly. Higher-rated models demonstrate genuine value, reflecting customer satisfaction and performance that justifies your expenditure beyond similar-priced alternatives.
Storage and Setup
Once you’ve found a grill that fits your budget, you’ll want to make certain it actually fits in your space. Check the dimensions and weight to facilitate easy transportation and storage in your garage or shed. Look for design features like folding side tables and locking casters that enable compact storage and smooth mobility during setup and teardown.
You’ll also appreciate grills equipped with removable grease trays or oil management systems, which streamline cleanup and keep your storage area tidy. Evaluate setup time by choosing models offering quick assembly—you’ll spend less time preparing and more time grilling. Finally, verify compatibility with standard-sized gas tanks so you’re not locked into specific propane cylinders, giving you flexibility in storage options.
