You’ve likely heard the saying that good things come in small packages. When it comes to grilling, that’s absolutely true. You don’t need a sprawling backyard or massive equipment to create restaurant-quality meals. Small gas grills deliver impressive performance in compact frames, but which one’s right for your space? We’ll examine seven top contenders that’ll transform how you think about outdoor cooking.
Quick Overview
- High BTU ratings (5,500-20,000) enable efficient heating and quick cook times despite compact sizing.
- Cooking surfaces range from 150-360 square inches, allowing preparation of 8-17 burgers simultaneously.
- Portable designs with foldable legs, integrated handles, and lightweight construction (10-15 pounds) ensure easy transport.
- Durable steel construction with porcelain-coated grates and grease trays provide long-lasting performance and simple maintenance.
- Multiple burner configurations and adjustable heat zones deliver versatile cooking capabilities in space-saving formats.
| Charbroil Portable Convective 1-Burner Propane Gas Grill – 465133010 |
| Compact Starter Grill | Cooking Surface Area: 190 sq. in. | BTU Output: Not specified | Fuel Type: Liquid propane | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Megamaster 1-Burner Portable Gas Grill (820-0065C) |
| Best Value | Cooking Surface Area: 360 sq. in. | BTU Output: 11,000 BTU | Fuel Type: Propane | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Propane Grill |
| Most Powerful | Cooking Surface Area: 285 sq. in. | BTU Output: 20,000 BTU | Fuel Type: Propane | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Cuisinart Petite Gourmet Portable Gas Grill Red |
| Budget-Friendly Pick | Cooking Surface Area: 150 sq. in. | BTU Output: 5,500 BTU | Fuel Type: Propane | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Cuisinart Grillster Portable Gas Grill with Locking Lid |
| Best Overall | Cooking Surface Area: 146 sq. in. | BTU Output: 8,000 BTU | Fuel Type: Propane | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Weber Traveler Portable Liquid Propane Gas Grill |
| Best For Travel | Cooking Surface Area: Not specified | BTU Output: 13,000 BTU | Fuel Type: Liquid propane | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Cuisinart Petite Gourmet Portable Gas Grill with VersaStand |
| Most Versatile | Cooking Surface Area: 150 sq. in. | BTU Output: 5,500 BTU | Fuel Type: Propane | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Charbroil Portable Convective 1-Burner Propane Gas Grill – 465133010
If you’re looking for a compact grilling solution that won’t demand much space or setup time, the Charbroil Portable Convective 1-Burner is your answer. This propane-powered grill delivers 190 square inches of cooking space, perfect for intimate outdoor gatherings. You’ll appreciate the durable steel construction with its high-temperature finish, which withstands the elements while maintaining long-lasting performance. The porcelain-coated grates resist rust and clean effortlessly after each use. Measuring just 15 inches high, 24.1 inches wide, and 12.3 inches deep, it fits anywhere you need it. Minimal assembly means you’re grilling within minutes, and the 90-day warranty covers your burner, grate, and lid for peace of mind.
- Cooking Surface Area:190 sq. in.
- BTU Output:Not specified
- Fuel Type:Liquid propane
- Portability:Portable design, minimal assembly
- Cooking Grate Material:Porcelain-coated steel
- Warranty Coverage:90 days
- Additional Feature:Porcelain-coated grates rust-resistant
- Additional Feature:Durable steel high-temperature finish
- Additional Feature:Minimal assembly required
Megamaster 1-Burner Portable Gas Grill (820-0065C)
The Megamaster 1-Burner Portable Gas Grill (820-0065C) is perfect for anyone who wants a compact, lightweight grilling solution without sacrificing cooking capacity. You’ll appreciate its 11,000 BTU stainless steel burner and 360 square inches of cooking space—enough to grill 17 burgers at once. The porcelain-enameled firebox heats quickly for efficient cooking, while direct heat grilling guarantees even results. You’ll value the foldable legs for easy transport and storage, plus the removable grease tray for hassle-free cleanup. Weighing just 14.42 pounds with a durable alloy steel frame, this grill excels at camping and tailgating. With a 4.4-star rating from nearly 5,000 reviews, you’re getting a proven performer backed by a 5-year warranty.
- Cooking Surface Area:360 sq. in.
- BTU Output:11,000 BTU
- Fuel Type:Propane
- Portability:Foldable legs, locking lid
- Cooking Grate Material:Not specified
- Warranty Coverage:5 years
- Additional Feature:Foldable legs locking lid
- Additional Feature:Built-in thermometer sleek design
- Additional Feature:Removable grease tray
Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Propane Grill
For those who’ve constantly sought a reliable grill that doesn’t sacrifice cooking power for portability, Coleman’s RoadTrip 285 delivers exactly what you’re looking for. You’ll get 20,000 BTUs across three adjustable burners, giving you precise temperature control for any meal. The 285-square-inch cooking surface accommodates everything from burgers to fish. Quick-fold legs and wheels make setup effortless, while the integrated thermometer guarantees accurate temperature monitoring. You’ll appreciate the included grease tray and side tables for meal prep. This grill excels at backyard cookouts, beach trips, camping, and tailgating. Pair it with a 1-pound or 16.4-ounce propane cylinder, and you’re ready to grill anywhere. Coleman backs it with a 3-year limited warranty.
- Cooking Surface Area:285 sq. in.
- BTU Output:20,000 BTU
- Fuel Type:Propane
- Portability:Quick-fold legs, 2 wheels
- Cooking Grate Material:Not specified
- Warranty Coverage:3 years
- Additional Feature:Three adjustable burners precise
- Additional Feature:Sturdy quick-fold legs wheels
- Additional Feature:Integrated thermometer temperature monitoring
Cuisinart Petite Gourmet Portable Gas Grill Red
Compact grilling doesn’t mean sacrificing capacity or performance—Cuisinart’s Petite Gourmet is built for those who want serious cooking power in a portable package. You’ll appreciate its 150 square-inch cooking surface, which accommodates up to eight burgers or six to ten chicken breasts for satisfying family meals. The 5,500 BTU burner delivers consistent heat with twist-to-start ignition for reliable performance. When you’re done cooking, you’ll benefit from dishwasher-safe grates that simplify cleanup. Its foldable design compresses to just 22.5 x 17.5 x 9.75 inches, while the briefcase-style carrying handle and lid latch guarantee secure transport. Tool-free assembly means you’re grilling in under ten minutes.
- Cooking Surface Area:150 sq. in.
- BTU Output:5,500 BTU
- Fuel Type:Propane
- Portability:Folds down, carry handle
- Cooking Grate Material:Dishwasher-safe grates
- Warranty Coverage:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Twist-to-start ignition system
- Additional Feature:Tool-free assembly under 10
- Additional Feature:Dishwasher-safe cooking grates
Cuisinart Grillster Portable Gas Grill with Locking Lid
If you’re looking for a grill that goes wherever you do, Cuisinart’s Grillster delivers portability without sacrificing cooking power. This compact stainless steel beast weighs just 10 pounds yet generates 8,000 BTU to reach over 600°F. You’ll cook on 146 square inches of enameled steel grating—plenty of space for your camping trip, tailgate party, or patio gathering. The locking lid keeps everything secure during transport, and you’ll have it ready in under five minutes with zero assembly hassle. Its dishwasher-safe grate makes cleanup effortless. With a stellar 4.4-star rating from thousands of users, you’re investing in proven performance.
- Cooking Surface Area:146 sq. in.
- BTU Output:8,000 BTU
- Fuel Type:Propane
- Portability:Locking lid for secure transport
- Cooking Grate Material:Enameled steel, dishwasher-safe
- Warranty Coverage:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Locking lid secure transport
- Additional Feature:Brushed stainless steel finish
- Additional Feature:Ready under 5 minutes
Weber Traveler Portable Liquid Propane Gas Grill
You’ll find the Weber Traveler an ideal choice if you’re constantly on the move—whether you’re camping, tailgating, or traveling to outdoor events. This compact grill features a powerful 13,000 BTU burner that heats rapidly and delivers precise temperature control for various foods. Its enameled cast-iron cooking grate retains heat exceptionally well while infusing authentic flavor into your meals. The push-button ignition system makes operation effortless, regardless of your grilling experience. You’ll appreciate its fold design, which tucks easily into car trunks for storage. The grill runs on disposable 16.4 oz. LP cylinders or connects to a full-size 20 lb. tank with an adapter hose, giving you flexibility for extended outdoor cooking sessions.
- Cooking Surface Area:Not specified
- BTU Output:13,000 BTU
- Fuel Type:Liquid propane
- Portability:Compact fold design
- Cooking Grate Material:Enameled cast-iron
- Warranty Coverage:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Enameled cast-iron cooking grate
- Additional Feature:Push button ignition system
- Additional Feature:Compatible full-size 20lb tank
Cuisinart Petite Gourmet Portable Gas Grill with VersaStand
The Cuisinart Petite Gourmet with VersaStand’s transforming design makes it ideal for those who want a grill that adapts to any setting—whether you’re grilling on a patio table or setting it up as a freestanding unit in your yard. You’ll appreciate its compact 150 square-inch cooking surface that accommodates up to eight burgers or six to ten chicken breasts. The 5,500 BTU burner delivers consistent heat with twist-to-start ignition. At just 18.8 pounds, you’ll fold it down to a portable 22.5 x 17.5 x 9.75 inches for transport. With tool-free assembly completed in under ten minutes and dishwasher-safe grates, you’re ready to grill anywhere without hassle.
- Cooking Surface Area:150 sq. in.
- BTU Output:5,500 BTU
- Fuel Type:Propane
- Portability:VersaStand, folds down, carry handle
- Cooking Grate Material:Porcelain-enameled, dishwasher-safe
- Warranty Coverage:Not specified
- Additional Feature:VersaStand telescoping base transforms
- Additional Feature:Tabletop freestanding grill conversion
- Additional Feature:Tool-free assembly under 10
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Small Gas Grill
When you’re shopping for a small gas grill, you’ll want to evaluate several key factors to find the right fit for your needs. Consider the cooking surface area to guarantee it’ll handle your typical meal sizes, the BTU output to confirm you’ll achieve proper heat levels, and the grill’s weight and portability if you plan to move it frequently. You should also examine the materials and construction for longevity, compare prices across brands, and review warranty coverage before making your final decision.
Cooking Surface Area
One of the most important factors in choosing a small gas grill is determining how much cooking space you’ll actually need. Cooking surface area typically ranges from 150 to 360 square inches, directly impacting how many items you can prepare simultaneously.
A 150-square-inch grill accommodates roughly eight burgers or six to ten chicken breasts, making it ideal for small gatherings. If you’re entertaining larger groups, a 360-square-inch model can grill up to seventeen burgers at once, greatly boosting efficiency.
Beyond capacity, surface area affects your cooking versatility. Larger grills provide better heat distribution, enabling you to prepare various foods at different temperatures simultaneously. Consider your typical gathering size and desired cooking flexibility when evaluating surface area options for tailgating, camping, or family meals.
Heat Output and BTU
While cooking surface area determines capacity, heat output—measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units)—determines how effectively your grill performs. A small gas grill typically ranges from 5,500 to 20,000 BTUs, directly affecting heat-up times and cooking efficiency for tasks like searing and direct grilling.
You’ll want to aim for approximately 80-100 BTU per square inch of cooking surface. This ratio guarantees effective heat distribution and lets you grill multiple items simultaneously without compromising performance.
Keep in mind that design elements matter too. Multiple burners and material type greatly influence actual cooking power and temperature control, even when BTU ratings appear similar. Don’t rely solely on BTU numbers—evaluate your grill’s overall construction and burner configuration to make sure you’re getting genuine cooking performance that matches your needs.
Portability and Weight
If you’re planning to take your grill camping, tailgating, or to the beach, weight becomes a crucial factor in your decision. You’ll want to prioritize models weighing around 10-15 pounds, as they’re markedly easier to transport and maneuver.
Beyond weight, you should examine the grill’s design features. Look for foldable legs and locking lids that minimize space and prevent spills during transport. Integrated handles and compact foldable designs further enhance portability and storage convenience.
You’ll also benefit from models requiring minimal assembly or offering tool-free setups. These options allow you to deploy your grill quickly wherever you choose to cook.
Finally, balance portability with cooking capacity. You need a compact grill that doesn’t compromise your food output for gatherings, ensuring you’re not sacrificing functionality for convenience.
Durability and Materials
Three critical material factors determine whether your small gas grill will withstand years of outdoor use: the body construction, grate composition, and overall frame quality. You’ll want high-temperature finished steel or alloy steel bodies that resist corrosion and handle outdoor conditions effectively. Porcelain-coated grates are your best choice—they prevent rust and simplify cleaning, extending your grill’s lifespan considerably.
While lightweight materials improve portability, don’t sacrifice durability for convenience. Thin metals compromise longevity, so balance weight considerations carefully. Reinforced legs and stable frames are essential; they support frequent use and transport without warping or breaking.
Before purchasing, check manufacturer warranties on burners and grates. Strong guarantees signal the maker’s confidence in their product’s durability and reveal which components typically require replacement.
Price and Warranty
How much should you actually spend on a small gas grill? Price typically reflects durability and materials—stainless steel components signal longevity and better performance. Budget models exist, but a higher initial investment often justifies itself through superior warranty terms and additional features, reducing long-term maintenance costs.
Warranty coverage varies considerably across manufacturers. Some offer minimal protection, like 90 days on essential parts, while others provide up to 5 years, indicating manufacturer confidence and build quality. However, don’t assume all warranties are equal. Coverage specifics differ greatly—some warranties exclude certain components, and many require registration or proof of purchase for validation.
Before committing, compare warranty terms alongside price and features. This balanced approach helps you find genuine value rather than simply the cheapest option available.
