The outdoor methods of cooking draw many people to the flame. The process of cooking with an open flame brings both ease of operation and a sense of friendship to all grillmasters, from beginners to experienced cooks. People seeking grills that adapt to their mobile way of living have specific requirements. A big BBQ pit is not necessary for preparing delicious grilled food through your outdoor cooking. Small grills serve as great options for dealing with limited outdoor spaces and moving between locations, along with providing extra area in your outdoor setting.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best small grills of 2025, highlighting their features, performance, and value. The market has different small grills waiting to serve any grilling preference between propane convenience and charcoal taste and gas efficiency. The following section analyzes the grill options that bring large flavor qualities within compact dimensions.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in Small Grills
Choosing the right small grill can be a bit tricky since you’ll need to balance portability, cooking power, and convenience. When shopping for a grill, you’ll want to consider a few important factors to ensure it meets your needs. Here’s a breakdown of the key features to look for:
Size and Portability
Small grills are designed to be compact and portable, making them ideal for people with limited space or those who enjoy outdoor adventures. Whether you plan to use the grill in your backyard, on the balcony, at a tailgate, or while camping, portability is a huge factor in your decision-making process.
Look for grills that are lightweight yet sturdy, with foldable legs or a handle for easy carrying. Some small grills are even designed to be mounted on a vehicle, making them even more portable for road trips or tailgating events.
Fuel Type: Propane, Charcoal, or Gas
The fuel type is one of the most important decisions when selecting a grill. Propane grills are known for their convenience, as they heat up quickly and are easy to control. They also tend to be cleaner and produce less smoke. Charcoal grills, on the other hand, provide that beloved smoky flavor and are typically the go-to for traditional grilling aficionados. Some small grills even use wood pellets for a unique flavor profile, though these are generally more complex.
Cooking Surface Area
While you’re looking for a compact grill, you’ll still want enough cooking space to suit your needs. Depending on the number of people you plan to cook for, the cooking surface will vary. A grill with 150-250 square inches of cooking space is perfect for 2-4 people, whereas larger models might be necessary if you’re grilling for a group.
Durability and Material
Even though small grills are portable, you don’t want to sacrifice durability. A sturdy grill is a long-term investment, and you’ll want a product that can withstand outdoor elements. Look for grills made of materials like stainless steel or cast iron, which are both durable and easy to clean.
Heat Control and BTUs
The BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating indicates the heat output of the grill. Higher BTUs mean the grill can reach higher temperatures quickly, which is ideal for searing. However, the design of the grill also affects how evenly it cooks, so a grill with good heat control might not need the highest BTU.
Additional Features
Look for additional features that could enhance your grilling experience. Some small grills come with built-in thermometers, folding side tables, or storage for utensils. A removable drip tray can make cleaning much easier, and certain models have extra racks for warming food while you continue cooking.
Best Small Grills of 2025
1. Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Grill
- Description: The Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill serves as an exceptional kitchen appliance specifically designed for indoor grill users who want outdoor-quality searing without upfront traditional grill requirements. Designed with contemporary style elements, the electric grill achieves outstanding heat performance like traditional searing while easily fitting into modern kitchens.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Year-Round Grilling: Enjoy grilled foods any time of the year, regardless of outdoor weather conditions.
- Easy Cleanup: The non-stick grilling surface and grease management system simplify the cleaning process.
- Adjustable Temperature: Allows for precise cooking, accommodating different recipes and food types.
- Compact Design: Ideal for kitchens with limited counter space and perfect for apartment living.
Cons:
- Limited Cooking Surface: The grilling area may be smaller compared to outdoor grills, which could restrict cooking larger meals.
- Smoke Production: Cooking fatty foods can produce smoke, so ventilation may be needed in smaller spaces.
- Cord Length: The power cord might restrict placement options, requiring a nearby outlet.
Why It Is Great:
The Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Grill delivers remarkable efficiency and convenience to the user. Users can enjoy genuine grilled results anytime via an indoor system that creates less cleaning work. Its efficient features complement the compact design, which turns it into an ideal kitchen appliance for fast home cooking and entertaining. This indoor grilling appliance allows you to prepare delectable and nutritious grilled food throughout the whole year without needing to venture outside.
2. MASTER COOK Tabletop Gas Grill
- Description: The MASTER COOK Tabletop Gas Grill combines excellent cooking capacity with portability. This grill features two burners, allowing for more heat control, and its tabletop design makes it perfect for smaller spaces, such as apartments or campsites.
- Pros:
- Dual Burners: With two burners, you get more control over the cooking temperature. You can cook at different temperatures, allowing you to sear and cook at the same time.
- Compact Yet Spacious: With 276 square inches of cooking surface, this grill provides a larger cooking area than most small grills.
- Durable Construction: The stainless steel design makes this grill both durable and resistant to the elements.
- Affordable: Offering great value for its price, it provides an excellent balance of performance and affordability.
- Cons:
- Requires Propane Tank: Like most gas grills, you’ll need a propane tank, which can be inconvenient for some users.
- No Side Shelves: The lack of side shelves can make food prep more difficult, especially when grilling multiple items.
Why is it great?
This small grill is perfect for anyone who needs more cooking capacity and wants versatility. With dual burners, it gives you better control over your cooking and is still compact enough to take on the go.
3. Cuisinart CGG-180 Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill
- Description: The Cuisinart CGG-180 is a small, portable grill that’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned grillers. With a foldable stand and an impressive cooking surface for its size, this grill proves that good things come in small packages.
- Pros:
- Compact and Foldable: Its folding stand and lightweight design make it incredibly portable and easy to store.
- Spacious Cooking Area: Despite its small footprint, it offers 145 square inches of cooking space, perfect for 2-4 people.
- Affordable: Priced affordably, this grill is a great option for those on a budget.
- Quick Heating: It reaches high temperatures quickly, so you can start grilling in no time.
- Cons:
- Lower BTU Output: At 5,500 BTUs, it may not be ideal for those who want to sear meats quickly or cook at very high temperatures.
Why is it great?
If you’re after a small, efficient grill that doesn’t take up much space, the Cuisinart CGG-180 Petit Gourmet is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for casual grilling or quick meals while camping.
4. Royal Gourmet CD1519 Tabletop Charcoal Grill
- Description: The Royal Gourmet CD1519 is a charcoal grill that packs a punch. Perfect for people who love the smoky flavor of charcoal grilling but need something compact for their outdoor adventures.
- Pros:
- Charcoal Flavor: If you love the smoky flavor of charcoal, this grill offers that authentic taste you can’t get from a gas grill.
- Affordable: One of the best budget-friendly options on the market.
- Portable: Small enough to fit in your car for a camping trip, yet large enough to cook for 2-4 people.
- Cons:
- Slower Heat Time: Charcoal takes longer to heat up than gas, meaning you’ll need to plan ahead.
- More Cleanup: Charcoal grilling generally involves more cleanup than gas or electric options.
Why is it great?
The Royal Gourmet CD1519 offers a simple, budget-friendly grill that prioritizes flavor.
5. Napoleon TravelQ 285 Portable Gas BBQ Grill
- Description: The Napoleon TravelQ 285 is a sleek, compact grill designed for people who want high-quality cooking performance without the bulk. It’s perfect for road trips, tailgating, or small backyard cookouts.
- Pros:
- Impressive Cooking Power: With 12,000 BTUs, it heats up quickly and evenly.
- Porcelain Cast Iron Grates: These grates retain heat well and are designed to last.
- Dual Burners: Offers better temperature control for more consistent cooking.
- Compact but Spacious: With 285 square inches of cooking space, it’s large enough to cook a full meal but still small enough to transport easily.
- Cons:
- Larger Than Some Competing Models: It’s on the larger side for a small grill, which may not be ideal if you need something ultra-compact.
Why is it great?
If you’re looking for a small grill that doesn’t compromise on cooking power, the Napoleon TravelQ 285 is one of the best options. It combines portability with high-end features and excellent cooking performance.
Comparison Chart
| Grill Model | Fuel Type | Cooking Surface | BTUs | Portability | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Grill | Electric | 118 sq. in. | 0 | Tabletop | Quick setup, portable |
| MASTER COOK Tabletop Gas Grill | Propane | 276 sq. in. | 20,000 | Tabletop | Dual burners, stainless steel |
| Cuisinart CGG-180 Petit Gourmet | Propane | 145 sq. in. | 5,500 | Foldable stand | Lightweight, compact design |
| Royal Gourmet CD1519 Charcoal Grill | Charcoal | 150 sq. in. | – | Tabletop | Affordable, classic charcoal flavor |
| Napoleon TravelQ 285 Gas BBQ Grill | Propane | 285 sq. in. | 12,000 | Portable | Dual burners, cast iron grates |
How to Choose the Best Small Grill Based on Use Case
For Tailgating or Camping
If portability is your top priority, you want a small grill that can easily be packed away in your car or carried with you. The Coleman Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill or Cuisinart CGG-180 Petit Gourmet are both excellent options, offering easy setup and reliable performance on the go.
For Grilling on a Budget
The Royal Gourmet CD1519 Tabletop Charcoal Grill is an affordable option for charcoal lovers. You can enjoy the authentic grilled flavor without exceeding your budget.
For Better Cooking Power and Versatility
If you want a grill that offers versatility, ease of use, and plenty of cooking capacity, the Napoleon TravelQ 285 or MASTER COOK Tabletop Gas Grill are great options. These grills give you more cooking space and control, making them perfect for larger cookouts.
Best Small Grills of 2025 FAQs
- What is the best type of fuel for a small grill?
- Propane is generally the best option for small grills, as it’s easy to use, quick to heat, and provides a consistent temperature. Charcoal, however, adds flavor and can be more affordable.
- How do I clean a small grill?
- Look for grills with removable drip trays or non-stick grates to make cleaning easier. Regular cleaning after each use will ensure your grill lasts longer.
- Can small grills handle larger meals?
- While small grills are perfect for 2-4 people, some models, like the Napoleon TravelQ 285, offer larger cooking surfaces, making them suitable for bigger meals.
Conclusion
People who require adaptable grilling devices that are compact yet powerful will find small grills to be their perfect solution. Whether you’re grilling at the beach, on a camping trip, or in your backyard, the best small grills of 2025 provide a convenient way to enjoy delicious meals on the go. Select the grill that matches your preferences and lifestyle because this will enable you to grill anywhere life leads you.
