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10 Best Small Grill 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Char-Broil® Patio Bistro® TRU-Infrared Electric Grill, Black - 20602107

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,136
Size and Cooking Area
Fuel Type
Material and Build Quality

Most important from
2765 reviews

Size and Cooking Area
Ideal for apartment balconies; it grills food well, offers good flavor, grill marks, and heat distribution.
Fuel Type
Perfect for condo living where gas or charcoal grills are not allowed; it gets really hot and can sear a steak nicely.
Material and Build Quality
Despite a complicated assembly, it’s well-made and the grates are much better than thin wire bars on some other grills, making it a joy to cook on.

The Char-Broil® Patio Bistro® TRU-Infrared Electric Grill is a convenient option for those who prefer an electric grill over gas or charcoal. It reaches cooking temperatures quickly and maintains even heat, thanks to its TRU-Infrared technology. This technology also prevents flare-ups and ensures your food remains juicy. With 320 square inches of cooking space, you can grill up to 12 burgers, 6 chicken breasts, or 4 steaks at once, making it suitable for small gatherings.

The grill includes a warming rack for indirect heating or keeping food warm and a control knob for adjusting temperatures easily. The porcelain-coated steel grates resist rust and are simple to clean, while the lid-mounted temperature gauge helps you monitor the internal temperature accurately. Portability is enhanced with a handle and two heavy-duty wheels, making it easy to move the grill around. The bottom shelf offers practical storage for your grilling tools.

Cleaning is straightforward thanks to a removable grease tray that can be lined with aluminum for hassle-free maintenance. However, some assembly is required, and the grill's performance is dependent on access to a power source, which may limit its use in some outdoor settings. The build quality, featuring alloy steel and stainless steel components, ensures durability. This grill is best suited for those with limited space, such as patios or balconies, and looking for an easy-to-use, low-maintenance grilling solution.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,136
Size and Cooking Area
Fuel Type
Material and Build Quality

Most important from
2765 reviews

Size and Cooking Area
Ideal for apartment balconies; it grills food well, offers good flavor, grill marks, and heat distribution.
Fuel Type
Perfect for condo living where gas or charcoal grills are not allowed; it gets really hot and can sear a steak nicely.
Material and Build Quality
Despite a complicated assembly, it’s well-made and the grates are much better than thin wire bars on some other grills, making it a joy to cook on.
#2

George Foreman 4-Serving Removable Plate Electric Grill and Panini Press, George Tough Non-Stick Coating, Drip Tray Catches Grease, Black

Rating
10.0
Size and Cooking Area
Temperature Control
Ease of Cleaning

Most important from
30269 reviews

Size and Cooking Area
Perfect for cooking for 1-2 people, though it might require multiple batches for larger groups.
Temperature Control
Heats up quickly and grills both sides of the food simultaneously, no flipping needed.
Ease of Cleaning
The removable plates make cleaning a breeze, encouraging more frequent use.

The George Foreman 4-Serving Removable Plate Electric Grill and Panini Press is a compact and efficient small-grill option. With its 60-square inch cooking area, it comfortably fits four servings, making it ideal for small families or couples. The non-stick coating is a standout feature, being three times more durable and eliminating the need for butter or oil, which makes it healthier and easier to clean.

This grill heats up 35% faster than previous models, so you can start cooking quickly without long waits. The removable grill plates are convenient since you can pop them in the dishwasher for easy cleanup, which is a big plus for busy users. However, being an electric grill, it does require a power source, limiting its portability compared to charcoal or gas grills. It's also relatively lightweight at 0.62 pounds, which adds to its portability within a home setting but may not be robust for outdoor use.

The build quality is solid with a ceramic material, ensuring durability and a sleek black finish adds a modern touch to your kitchen. The temperature control might not be as precise as some high-end models, but it suffices for regular grilling and panini pressing tasks. The included drip tray that catches grease helps in keeping the cooking area clean. This grill is particularly suitable for those looking for a quick, easy-to-use, and easy-to-clean indoor grilling solution.

Rating
10.0
Size and Cooking Area
Temperature Control
Ease of Cleaning

Most important from
30269 reviews

Size and Cooking Area
Perfect for cooking for 1-2 people, though it might require multiple batches for larger groups.
Temperature Control
Heats up quickly and grills both sides of the food simultaneously, no flipping needed.
Ease of Cleaning
The removable plates make cleaning a breeze, encouraging more frequent use.
#3

Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill, Black

Rating
9.9
Size and Cooking Area
Fuel Type
Portability

Most important from
7932 reviews

Size and Cooking Area
Ideal for small spaces, this grill cooks evenly and is hassle-free with a AAA battery-powered igniter.
Fuel Type
This grill takes standard 16.4-ounce tanks you can find anywhere, making it convenient and easy to use.
Portability
Perfect for mobile cooking, it cools off in five minutes, making it easy to load back into the car after use.
Material and Build Quality
The grates are sturdy and heat evenly, with excellent flame control from low to medium/high settings.
Temperature Control
The grill heats up quickly, reaching 420+ degrees in about ten minutes, ensuring perfect medium-rare steaks and evenly cooked tri-tips.

The Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill is a compact outdoor grill ideal for small spaces and portability. It boasts a cooking area of 189 square inches, making it suitable for small gatherings. The grill uses liquid propane, specifically disposable LP cylinders, which are convenient but may require frequent replacement. Its one stainless steel burner generates 8500 BTU-per-hour, offering decent heating power for its size.

The build quality is robust, featuring porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates and a cast aluminum lid and body, ensuring durability and even heat distribution. The grill's dimensions with the lid closed and tables out are 15.5H x 40.9W x 16.5D inches, making it compact yet functional with folding side tables for added workspace. Portability is enhanced by the grill's lightweight design (30 pounds) and compact build, though it may be heavier than some other portable options. Temperature control is facilitated by an infinite control burner valve and easy-start electronic ignition, allowing precise heat adjustments.

Cleaning is relatively straightforward, thanks to the removable catch pan and porcelain-enameled grates. However, users should handle the brass material with care due to lead exposure warnings. The grill also includes a lid thermometer, adding convenience for monitoring cooking temperatures. Assembly instructions are accessible via the free BILT app, aiding in setup. The Weber Q1200 is well-regarded by customers, with high ratings reflecting satisfaction with its performance and build quality. Those looking for a durable, portable, and easy-to-use small grill for outdoor use will find the Weber Q1200 a strong contender, though the need for disposable propane cylinders and lead handling precautions are notable drawbacks.

Rating
9.9
Size and Cooking Area
Fuel Type
Portability

Most important from
7932 reviews

Size and Cooking Area
Ideal for small spaces, this grill cooks evenly and is hassle-free with a AAA battery-powered igniter.
Fuel Type
This grill takes standard 16.4-ounce tanks you can find anywhere, making it convenient and easy to use.
Portability
Perfect for mobile cooking, it cools off in five minutes, making it easy to load back into the car after use.
Material and Build Quality
The grates are sturdy and heat evenly, with excellent flame control from low to medium/high settings.
Temperature Control
The grill heats up quickly, reaching 420+ degrees in about ten minutes, ensuring perfect medium-rare steaks and evenly cooked tri-tips.

Buying Guide for the Best Small Grill

Choosing the right small grill can greatly enhance your outdoor cooking experience. Whether you're planning to use it for camping, tailgating, or just enjoying a barbecue in your backyard, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and find a grill that meets your cooking style and preferences.
Size and Cooking AreaThe size and cooking area of a small grill determine how much food you can cook at once. This is important because it affects how many people you can serve and how efficiently you can cook multiple items. Small grills typically range from 100 to 300 square inches of cooking space. If you usually cook for one or two people, a grill on the smaller end of this range should suffice. For small gatherings or family meals, opt for a grill with a larger cooking area within this range.
Fuel TypeSmall grills can be powered by various fuel types, including charcoal, propane, electric, and even wood pellets. The fuel type affects the flavor of the food, ease of use, and portability. Charcoal grills offer a traditional smoky flavor but require more time to heat up and clean. Propane grills are convenient and heat up quickly, making them great for quick meals. Electric grills are easy to use and can be used indoors or in areas with restrictions on open flames. Wood pellet grills provide a unique flavor but are less common in small sizes. Choose a fuel type based on your cooking preferences and where you plan to use the grill.
PortabilityPortability is a key factor for small grills, especially if you plan to take it on the go. This spec includes the grill's weight, size, and features like foldable legs or carrying handles. Lightweight grills (under 20 pounds) are ideal for camping and tailgating, while slightly heavier models (20-40 pounds) may offer more stability and cooking space for backyard use. Consider how often you'll need to move the grill and choose one that balances portability with your cooking needs.
Material and Build QualityThe material and build quality of a small grill affect its durability and heat retention. Common materials include stainless steel, cast iron, and aluminum. Stainless steel is rust-resistant and easy to clean, making it a popular choice. Cast iron retains heat well and provides even cooking but is heavier and requires more maintenance. Aluminum is lightweight and resistant to rust but may not retain heat as well as other materials. Choose a material based on how often you plan to use the grill and the level of maintenance you're willing to perform.
Temperature ControlTemperature control is crucial for cooking different types of food to perfection. This spec includes features like adjustable vents, dampers, and built-in thermometers. Good temperature control allows you to cook a variety of foods, from searing steaks to slow-cooking ribs. Look for grills with easy-to-use temperature control features that match your cooking style. If you enjoy experimenting with different recipes, precise temperature control will be beneficial.
Ease of CleaningEase of cleaning is an important consideration, as it affects how much time and effort you'll spend maintaining your grill. Features like removable ash catchers, grease trays, and non-stick grates can make cleaning easier. Charcoal grills typically require more cleaning effort than propane or electric grills. If you prefer a low-maintenance option, look for grills with easy-to-clean features that will save you time and hassle after cooking.

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