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10 Best Portable Barbecue Grill 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill with 3 Adjustable Burners & Instastart Ignition, 20,000 BTUs of Power for Outdoor Cooking, Camping, Tailgating, Grilling, BBQs, & More

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,371
Size and Cooking Area
Portability
Material and Build Quality

Most important from
6696 reviews

Size and Cooking Area
Even compared to a $4,000 Viking BBQ, this $230 grill is superior in almost every way, except for the smaller cooking area.
Portability
Easy to clean and fold up, making it ideal for both home use and camping.
Material and Build Quality
The cast grates retain heat well and won't deteriorate like cheaper steel wire grates.
Heat Control
The multi-burner design minimizes flare-ups and allows for precise flame adjustment, perfect for searing steaks and finishing with indirect heat.

The Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill is designed with portability and outdoor cooking in mind. It boasts 20,000 BTUs of grilling power across three adjustable burners, allowing for precise temperature control, which is crucial for varied cooking needs. The large grilling area of 285 square inches provides ample space to cook for a small gathering. Its quick-fold legs and wheels make it easy to set up and transport, ideal for camping trips or tailgating events.

The push-button ignition system ensures hassle-free lighting without matches, enhancing convenience. Additionally, the integrated thermometer aids in monitoring cooking temperatures accurately, helping to achieve perfect grilling results. Made with stainless steel frame material and powder-coated finish, the grill promises durability and resilience against outdoor elements.

The grill uses a 16.4 oz. propane cylinder, which is sold separately, adding to recurring costs. Weighing in at 46.67 pounds, it may be considered heavy for some users, potentially challenging mobility despite the portable design features. Cleaning is facilitated by the straightforward design, but some users might find it less convenient compared to smaller portable grills.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,371
Size and Cooking Area
Portability
Material and Build Quality

Most important from
6696 reviews

Size and Cooking Area
Even compared to a $4,000 Viking BBQ, this $230 grill is superior in almost every way, except for the smaller cooking area.
Portability
Easy to clean and fold up, making it ideal for both home use and camping.
Material and Build Quality
The cast grates retain heat well and won't deteriorate like cheaper steel wire grates.
Heat Control
The multi-burner design minimizes flare-ups and allows for precise flame adjustment, perfect for searing steaks and finishing with indirect heat.
#2

Traeger Grills TFB30KLF Tailgater 20 Portable Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker – Foldable Legs, 6-in-1 Versatility, 300 sq. in. Cooking Space for Tailgating, Camping, and Outdoor BBQ

Rating
9.8
Grill Type
Size and Cooking Area
Portability

Most important from
735 reviews

Grill Type
The Tailgater 20 delivers a superior cooking experience, effortlessly surpassing charcoal grills.
Size and Cooking Area
The grill's size is perfect and it cooks food at the precise temperature and time as suggested.
Portability
Its portability is a standout feature, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Heat Control
With its calculated cool-down time and robust control panel, this grill is both advanced and user-friendly.

The Traeger Grills TFB30KLF Tailgater 20 is a portable electric wood pellet grill and smoker designed for outdoor activities like tailgating, camping, and picnicking. Its most notable strength is the authentic wood-fired flavor it provides, which sets it apart from gas or charcoal grills. The grill's 6-in-1 versatility allows you to grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ, making it highly adaptable to various cooking needs.

With 300 square inches of cooking space, it can handle a reasonable amount of food, like 12 burgers or 2 whole chickens, which is sufficient for small gatherings. The precision temperature control, ranging from 180-450°F, ensures consistent cooking results, an essential feature for both amateur and seasoned grillers. Portability is a key highlight, thanks to its foldable legs, though at 60 pounds, it may still be somewhat heavy for some users to carry.

The build quality, using steel and alloy steel, promises durability, but given its weight and size, it might not be the easiest to transport frequently. Cleaning is made simpler with porcelain-coated grill grates, although the 8 lbs. pellet hopper may require frequent refilling during longer cooking sessions. Being powered by both electricity and wood pellets, it offers flexibility but also means you need a power source nearby. This grill is best suited for those who appreciate the distinct flavor of wood pellet cooking and need a versatile, portable option for outdoor cooking, despite some trade-offs in weight and fuel management.

Rating
9.8
Grill Type
Size and Cooking Area
Portability

Most important from
735 reviews

Grill Type
The Tailgater 20 delivers a superior cooking experience, effortlessly surpassing charcoal grills.
Size and Cooking Area
The grill's size is perfect and it cooks food at the precise temperature and time as suggested.
Portability
Its portability is a standout feature, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Heat Control
With its calculated cool-down time and robust control panel, this grill is both advanced and user-friendly.
#3

Cuisinart Petite Gourmet Portable Gas Grill with VersaStand™, Compact Tabletop BBQ, 150 Sq. In. Cooking Surface, 5,500 BTU Burner Small Gas Grill, Adjustable Telescoping Base and Carry Handles

Rating
9.7
Grill Type
Size and Cooking Area
Portability

Most important from
3882 reviews

Grill Type
This grill heats up quickly and lights easily, delivering consistent cooking performance for small meals like burgers and hot dogs.
Size and Cooking Area
The compact cooking surface comfortably fits enough food for small groups, making it a great choice for casual outdoor meals without the bulk of larger grills.
Portability
The foldable legs and carry handle make it extremely portable and versatile, allowing use on tabletops or as a freestanding unit, perfect for camping, tailgating, or beach outings.
Material and Build Quality
Despite being lightweight at around 19 pounds, the grill feels sturdy and durable enough for frequent outdoor use, though it’s not designed for heavy-duty grilling or large gatherings.
Heat Control
While it performs well for moderate heat cooking, it may struggle to stay lit in very windy conditions and lacks a burner shield, which can cause drippings to accumulate on the burner.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleanup is simple thanks to dishwasher-safe grates and an accessible grease trap that locks in place, though the drip tray can fill and overflow quickly during extended use.

The Cuisinart Petite Gourmet is a compact and versatile portable gas grill, great for small family meals or casual outdoor cooking. Its 150 square inch cooking surface is enough to grill around 8 burgers or several chicken breasts at once, which suits small groups well. The 5,500 BTU burner provides steady heat that ignites easily with a twist, so you won’t have to fuss with complicated startups. One standout feature is the VersaStand, which lets you use the grill either on a tabletop or as a freestanding unit, adding flexibility depending on your space.

Portability is a strong point here—the grill folds down to a manageable size and includes a carry handle, making it convenient for picnics, tailgating, or camping. At about 19 pounds, it’s light enough for most people to carry comfortably. The grill’s body is made of alloy steel with a powder-coated finish, offering decent durability for outdoor use, though it may not be as rugged as heavier-duty models. Cleanup is simplified thanks to dishwasher-safe grates, saving you time after cooking.

With only one burner and moderate heat output, this grill may not satisfy those needing high-temperature cooking or large capacity for bigger gatherings. Also, while the assembly is tool-free and straightforward, the compact size means it’s best suited for smaller meals rather than large parties. If you want a reliable, easy-to-use grill that balances portability with enough cooking space for everyday outdoor meals, the Cuisinart Petite Gourmet is a solid choice.

Rating
9.7
Grill Type
Size and Cooking Area
Portability

Most important from
3882 reviews

Grill Type
This grill heats up quickly and lights easily, delivering consistent cooking performance for small meals like burgers and hot dogs.
Size and Cooking Area
The compact cooking surface comfortably fits enough food for small groups, making it a great choice for casual outdoor meals without the bulk of larger grills.
Portability
The foldable legs and carry handle make it extremely portable and versatile, allowing use on tabletops or as a freestanding unit, perfect for camping, tailgating, or beach outings.
Material and Build Quality
Despite being lightweight at around 19 pounds, the grill feels sturdy and durable enough for frequent outdoor use, though it’s not designed for heavy-duty grilling or large gatherings.
Heat Control
While it performs well for moderate heat cooking, it may struggle to stay lit in very windy conditions and lacks a burner shield, which can cause drippings to accumulate on the burner.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleanup is simple thanks to dishwasher-safe grates and an accessible grease trap that locks in place, though the drip tray can fill and overflow quickly during extended use.

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Barbecue Grill

Choosing the right portable barbecue grill can make your outdoor cooking experience enjoyable and hassle-free. When selecting a grill, consider where and how often you plan to use it, the type of food you like to cook, and how many people you typically cook for. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
Grill TypeThe type of grill refers to the fuel it uses, such as charcoal, gas, or electric. This is important because it affects the flavor of the food, ease of use, and portability. Charcoal grills offer a traditional smoky flavor and are great for those who enjoy the process of grilling. Gas grills are convenient and heat up quickly, making them ideal for frequent use. Electric grills are easy to use and clean, perfect for areas where open flames are not allowed. Choose based on your preference for flavor, convenience, and where you plan to use the grill.
Size and Cooking AreaThe size and cooking area of the grill determine how much food you can cook at once. This is important for ensuring you can cook enough food for your group without overcrowding the grill. Small grills are suitable for 1-2 people or occasional use, medium grills can handle meals for 3-4 people, and large grills are best for larger gatherings or families. Consider how many people you typically cook for and choose a size that meets your needs without being too bulky to transport.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to transport and set up the grill. This is crucial if you plan to take your grill on camping trips, picnics, or tailgating. Lightweight grills with foldable legs and carrying handles are ideal for easy transport. Some grills come with wheels for added convenience. Think about how often you will move the grill and choose one that is easy to carry and set up in different locations.
Material and Build QualityThe material and build quality of the grill affect its durability and performance. This is important for ensuring your grill lasts through many uses and withstands outdoor conditions. Stainless steel and cast iron are durable and resistant to rust, while aluminum is lightweight and easy to transport. Look for sturdy construction and high-quality materials that can handle high temperatures and frequent use. Choose a grill that balances durability with portability based on your usage.
Heat ControlHeat control refers to the ability to adjust and maintain the temperature of the grill. This is important for cooking different types of food to perfection. Gas grills typically have adjustable burners for precise heat control, while charcoal grills allow you to control the heat by adjusting the airflow. Electric grills often have temperature dials for easy adjustments. Consider the types of food you like to cook and choose a grill with good heat control features to ensure even cooking.
Ease of CleaningEase of cleaning refers to how simple it is to clean the grill after use. This is important for maintaining the grill and ensuring it is ready for the next use. Grills with removable grates and drip trays are easier to clean. Non-stick surfaces and dishwasher-safe parts can also make cleaning more convenient. Think about how much time you want to spend on cleaning and choose a grill with features that make the process quick and easy.

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