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When you are looking for a new grill to purchase, the first question that pops into your head is probably not “I wonder if I should get a small grill or a large one?”
A small grill is a great option for those who do not need to cook for large groups of people. There are many benefits to choosing a smaller grill, including less space needed and cheaper price tags. However, there are certain things that you might lose with a small grill over a large one.
I mean, it’s true that large grills are great for cooking a lot of food at once, but they also have their drawbacks. The size and shape of the grill can affect how well you can cook certain foods. The temperature control is not as precise as it would be on a smaller grill, and there might be too much smoke involved to keep your kitchen (and other living areas) clean if you happen to live in an apartment or condo. So, what are the best small grills?
In this article, we will be discussing what might be lost when using a small grill over a large one, different types of small grills, and top products to consider!
Bottom Line Up Front
All in all, and after a lot of research, we highly recommend that you use the Weber Q1400 Electric Grill if you’re after a small grill that has a wide range of uses. This grill can be used in the home, is small enough to be used on a balcony of apartments, and is also extremely portable thanks to it being electric. This means it’s incredibly easy to take camping or in a motorhome as well.
What is a small grill?
A small grill is a compact and portable cooking device that is designed for outdoor use. It is typically fueled by propane or charcoal, and it has a smaller cooking surface than a traditional gas or charcoal grill. Small grills are perfect for camping, tailgating, or any other outdoor activity where you need to cook food but don’t want to haul a large grill around.
What do you lose with a small grill?
There are a few things that you lose if you opt for a smaller grill.
First, the cooking surface is typically smaller than a traditional grill, so you can’t cook as much food at once.
Additionally, small grills don’t always have the same level of heat output as their larger counterparts, so it may take longer to cook your food. Smaller grills also don’t typically do as well in windy conditions.
Finally, small grills are not always as durable as larger ones, so they may not last as long. This is particularly true when it comes to small grills that are designed for camping trips.
However, small grills are usually cheaper than large ones, and they are, of course, much more compact, which is ideal if you need to move them around a lot or if you don’t have a lot of storage space. This also makes them ideal for things like camping or RV-ing where you might need something compact and portable.
What are the different types of small grills?
There are three main types of small grills: propane, charcoal, and electric. Propane grills are the most popular type because they are portable and easy to use. Charcoal grills require you to start a fire before you can cook, but they offer a more traditional grilling experience. Electric grills are the most convenient type – all you have to do is plug them in and wait for them to heat up. However, they can be more expensive than other types of small grills.
Let’s explore some of the most popular grills in more detail:
Electric grill
The electric grill is the most convenient type of small grill – all you have to do is plug it in and wait for it to heat up. It can be a bit more expensive than other types of small grills, but it offers a lot of versatility since you can use it indoors or outdoors. Electric grills also come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can find one that will fit your needs.
Charcoal grill
The charcoal grill is the most traditional type of small grill. It requires you to start a fire before cooking, but it offers a more authentic grilling experience. They are ideal for tailgating, camping, or any other activity where you need to cook your food without electricity. They are typically more portable than propane grills because they don’t require the same level of fuel storage.
Propane grill
The most popular type of small grill is a propane model like this one. Propane grills are easy to use and portable, so they are ideal for camping or tailgating. They also offer a lot of versatility because you can hook them up to larger tanks if your needs change from time to time.
Gas grill
The gas grill is another popular type. Gas grills are available in both traditional and infrared models, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs. They are especially good if you need to cook a lot of food at once because they heat up quickly and have stronger heat output than other types of small grills.
Portable grill
The portable grill is a perfect choice if you need a grill that is easy to move around. It typically has two wheels and a handle, so you can take it with you wherever you go. They are also smaller in size than other grills, making them convenient for storage.
Indoor/outdoor grill
The indoor/outdoor grill is a great option if you want to be able to use your grill both indoors and outdoors. It has a built-in heat shield, so it is safe to use on an indoor surface. This type of small grill also comes in both propane and charcoal models.
Pellet grill
The pellet grill is a newer type of small grill that uses wood pellets as fuel. The pellets are stored in a hopper, and the grill automatically feeds them to the firebox. This type of grill offers some unique benefits, such as even heat distribution and the ability to smoke food.
Camping grill
A camping grill is a great option if you need something that is lightweight and portable. It typically has two or three legs, so it can stand up on its own, and it comes with a carrying case for easy transport. To use these types of grills, you simply place them over an open fire at a campsite, so they are perfect for cooking outdoors.
What should you look for in a small grill?
So, now that we’ve explored some of the most popular types of small grills out there let’s take a look at some of the factors you should consider when choosing one.
First, think about what you will be using your grill for. If you plan to use it mostly for tailgating or camping, you will want to choose a portable model that is easy to move around. If you need something that is more versatile, then you might want to consider an electric grill or a gas grill.
Second, think about where you will be using your grill. If you plan to use it indoors, then you need to make sure that it has a built-in heat shield so that it is safe to use on an indoor surface. If you will only be using it outdoors, then you can choose any type of small grill that you like.
Finally, consider your budget. Small grills typically cost less than other types of grills, but there is a range of options available, so you can find one that fits your needs.
Here are a few more things you should look at in the best small grills:
Size
Of course, size is an important factor, so choose a small grill that fits your needs. You can find models with anywhere from one to six burners, and most have a cooking area between 100-500 square inches.
Number of burners
Smaller grills typically come with one burner, but if your needs change from time to time, you might want an option with more. Two or three burners are also common on small grills, and this gives you some flexibility in cooking.
Cooking space
This is usually measured in square inches, so you can compare the different types of small grills. Most have anywhere from 100 to 500 square inches of cooking space, but this varies depending on your needs.
Built-in thermometer
A built-in thermometer lets you monitor the temperature inside your grill without opening it up. This is a helpful feature, especially if you are cooking food that needs to be kept at a specific temperature.
Ease of cleaning
Cleaning your small grill can be a bit more time-consuming than with other types of grills, so you want to make sure that it is easy to do. Models with porcelain enamel or cast iron cooking grids are durable and resist corrosion while being easier to clean. Some models have removable parts that are dishwasher safe for added convenience.
Portability
If you plan to take your small grill with you on camping trips or tailgating events, then make sure that it is lightweight and easy to transport. Look for a model with a carrying case or one that can be easily disassembled for storage.
Fuel type
You’ll want to think about what kind of fuel you prefer for your small grill, as different types offer unique benefits. Charcoal and pellet grills offer a smoky flavor, while gas grills heat up quickly. Electric models are easy to use and versatile since you can take them with you indoors or outdoors. These are some of the most popular fuel types:
Charcoal
Charcoal is a popular fuel type for grills because it offers a smoky flavor and is inexpensive. It also heats up quickly, so it’s a good option if you want to cook food fast. However, you will need to clean the grill after each use to avoid any build-up of ash.
Pellet
If you want the benefits of charcoal without the hassle of cleaning, then a pellet grill might be a good option for you. Pellets are made of wood or other biomass materials, and they burn cleanly, so there is little ash to clean up. They also offer a variety of flavors that can enhance your grilling experience.
Natural gas
Using natural gas is a safe and efficient option for your small grill. This fuel type heats up quickly and provides you with consistent cooking temperatures, so it’s good if you want to cook food over an extended period of time or at higher heat levels.
Propane
Propane is a popular fuel type for grills because it is easy to find and inexpensive. It also heats up quickly, so it’s a good option if you want to cook food fast. However, you will need to refill the propane tank periodically.
Electricity
If you want a grill that is easy to use and versatile, then an electric model might be a good option for you. Electric models can be used indoors or outdoors, and some come with detachable grills that can be used as stovetops. This fuel type is also more environmentally-friendly than other options.
Build quality
When considering different small grills, you’ll want to think about the build quality. How well is the grill constructed? Is it made from materials that will withstand frequent use? Are any of the parts removable for easy cleaning?
Accessories
What accessories does the small grill that you’re looking at come with? Is it missing anything that you think will be helpful to have? Does it come with a grill cover or any other accessories like utensils or tools?
Stand or Bracket
Some small grills come with a stand or bracket to help keep them stable. This can be helpful if you plan to use your grill on an uneven surface, like a patio or deck.
Price
When considering different small grills, pricing is one of the main considerations. What’s the cost for this type of grill compared to others on the market? Are there deals available if you opt for a cheaper model, or is there only one price point?
Our top small grill recommendations
Kamado Joe Jr. KJ13RH Charcoal Grill
Made by Kamado Joe, this is a small kamado-style charcoal grill.
There are three different sizes available; the junior is their smallest size. This model has enough space to cook for two people since it only takes up 178 square inches of cooking area (13″ diameter). This means it could fit on a patio or balcony but is also still portable.
You could also consider stepping up to a medium-sized classic, but think carefully about your space and about moving it around. It is 188 pounds in weight, so it’s 120 pounds heavier than the junior.
The Kamado Joe Jr. is made with 304 stainless steel cooking grates, a ceramic heat deflector, and a grill gripper that will make it last for years. It’s a great option if you want to start out slow smoking or doing direct heat on your food.
It’s also very versatile, meaning it can be used for a variety of cooking styles, including smoking and grilling. It’s also very well made and will last you a lifetime as it is created from high-quality materials! Plus, its portability means you can take it with you wherever you go.
The only downside is that it’s a bit expensive, retailing for over $500. But, if you’re looking for a small all-in-one grill that does it all, the Kamado Joe Jr. KJ13RH Charcoal Grill is the perfect option!
Pros
- Small and portable
- Made with high-quality materials
- Retains heat very well
- Versatile and can also be used for smoking
Cons
- Quite a small cooking area
Weber Liquid Propane 60010001 Genesis II E-210 LP Grill
This small grill by Weber is perfect for anyone with a small yard or terrace. The cooktop itself is a pretty small unit. But, you get porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates, side tables with hooks, a warming rack, and even a fuel gauge in this little package.
It has two stainless steel gas burners, an impressive 380 square inches of cooking space, and for those tech-savvy barbecue lovers, it is also “iGrill-ready.” This means you can attach a digital thermometer to the grill that sends data straight to your smartphone.
It features a cast aluminum body, a folding side table, and wheels for easy transport. This grill also has a built-in thermometer to help you keep track of your food’s temperature. Plus, as the stand is designed with four wheels -two casters and two big wheels- moving it around should be a piece of cake.
The hinged lid on this small gas grill is similar to a full-size barbecue. This is a positive, but it also means that you’ll need room to extend the lid. There’s also a warming rack (114 square inches) and cooking space of 380 square inches under the hood.
The Genesis E-210 is very durable and high quality, but it comes at a high price tag – not everyone will be able to afford or want to pay the price for this top-of-the-line product! But, if you have a smaller space available for use and are passionate about grilling, then this small Weber grill might just be perfect for you!
Pros
- Great for grilling and smoking
- Large wheels for easy portability
- Can connect to a smartphone app that will tell you when your food is done.
Cons
- Expensive compared to other models on the market
- The lid doesn’t open very wide, which can make it difficult if you have larger pieces of meat or veggies inside
Weber 52020001 Q1400 Electric Grill
Another of the best small grills on this list made by Weber, the Q1400 has a ton of features for an electric grill. The 189 square inches of cooking space is plenty, and the porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates will give you great grill marks on whatever you cook.
The Q1400 is a great small grill for anyone looking for an electric option, and it’s perfect for taking on the go. With its aluminum lid and body, and glass-reinforced nylon frame, this grill is rust-proof and easy to move around. Plus, with its efficient electric heating element, you’ll be able to cook up a storm in no time.
This little portable electric grill is also a great way to save money on barbecues. It’s only slightly bigger than the stackable version, meaning you can bring it anywhere and use it on site. Plus, if you buy a tiny electric grill like this one, you may take it with you on trips and use it at home—or anywhere. One thing to keep in mind is that this grill comes with a six-foot cable, so be sure you aren’t too far away from an outlet.
Pros
- 189 square inches of cooking space,
- Porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates, aluminum lid, and body, glass-reinforced nylon frame
Cons
- It only has a 6-foot cable
- It takes a long time to preheat
Texsport Heavy Duty Over Fire Camp Grill
This camping grill by Texsport is a great option for those looking for something simple, easy to transport, and versatile. Admittedly, it’s not the best option for those looking to grill large cuts of meat, but it’s perfect for cooking up a simple meal over an open flame while camping.
There’s no need to bring along charcoal, propane, or other fuels, and there’s no requirement to maintain a separate fire for cooking in the basic design, which straddles a campfire. Then, it can hold a Dutch oven, frying pan, or coffee pot over the hot fire. There are two sizes available: 16 x 12 inches and 24 x 16 inches. It’s lightweight and compact, and you could even use it for keeping equipment off the ground when it isn’t in use for cooking.
Pros
- Simple, effective design
- Easy to carry around
- It can be used in multiple ways
- Well-made and durable
Cons
- Metal can warp after extensive use
Char-Broil Kettleman Grill Black
Last but not least, this Char-Broil Kettleman Grill Black is another great option if you’re looking for a smaller, more compact grill. It features infrared cooking grates that distribute and generate more heat evenly with less fuel and has 360 square inches of cooking space.
This grill is suitable for grilling, smoking, and roasting. It has a large vent on the lid to help keep the temperature even during cooking, as well as an adjustable charcoal grate to position food closer or farther from the heat source.
The grill also has two wheels for easy maneuverability and comes with a lid that latches closed for storage or when moving it. Plus, cleanup is easier with this grill since the ash bowl slides in and out easily.
Finally, it’s affordably priced, has a generous warranty to go along with its high-quality components and construction, and comes in either black or red.
Pros
- Suitable for grilling, smoking, and roasting
- 360 square inches of cooking space
- Large vent on lid to help keep the temperature even
- Adjustable charcoal grate
- It comes with a lid that latches closed for storage or when moving it
Cons
- Not suitable for large cuts of meat
What criteria did we use to come up with these selections?
To come up with the best small grills that we’ve listed above, we looked at a number of different factors. These include the grill’s cooking surface, how it heats up and cools down, ease of use, price point relative to its value for money, and customer reviews with regard to durability and overall performance.
First, we looked at the grill’s cooking surface. The more square inches of available space an electric or charcoal grill has, for example, means you can cook larger cuts of meat as well as a greater variety of items in less time.
Second, we looked at how they heat up and cool down. In this case, it was important to look not just at the time it takes to heat up a grill, but also how long it retains that heat so you can cook multiple items consecutively without having to wait.
Third, we looked at ease of use. This includes factors such as whether or not the grill is simple and easy to assemble out of the box, has an adjustable cooking grate, and is easy to maintain.
Fourth, we considered price points relative to their value for money. In other words, were people getting a good deal when they bought this product compared with similar models or competitors? And lastly, we made sure that each grill has positive reviews from customers on factors such as durability and overall performance.
This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it should give you a good starting point if you’re looking for the best small grill for your needs.
FAQs
Answer: To make a good small gas grill, a company needs to have a lot of experience making grills and should focus on quality, durability, and performance in its products. Some of the best small gas grills that we found are made by Weber, Char-Broil, and Kamado Joe.
Answer: Small propane grills can be a great option for camping if you’re looking for something that is lightweight and easy to transport. They usually come with a carrying case or bag, so they’re easy to bring along.
Answer: Small electric grills should be simple to use while offering convenience features like adjustable temperature control or preset cooking settings. Some of the best small electric grills are made by Weber.
Answer: The best portable BBQ is the one that offers the most cooking space, is easy to set up and use, and has a durable construction. Our top pick for the best portable BBQ is the Weber Q1400 Electric Grill.
Answer: Small grills have a lot of pros going for them. They heat up quickly, are easy to transport and store, and can be used indoors or outdoors depending on the model. They also have a lot of space for food items and don’t take up much countertop space when they’re set up.
However, small grills also have some cons that go along with them. These include things like not having the same level of durability as full-sized grills, having less cooking space than larger models, and not being able to cook large cuts of meat like a full-sized grill.
Answer: When looking for a portable gas grill, you’ll want to consider factors like the size of the cooking surface, how long it takes to heat up, how easy it is to set up and use, and whether or not it has any extra features like an adjustable grate or side burner.
Answer: Prices for small grills vary depending on the size, type, and features of the grill. However, most small grills fall in the $50 to $200 price range.
Answer: Some good tips for using a small grill include making sure that you preheat it before putting any food on it, using the grill lid to help cook food evenly, and keeping a close eye on food so that it doesn’t burn.
Answer: There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the most reliable grill brand will vary depending on your personal needs and preferences. However, some of the better brands to consider are Weber, Char-Broil, and Kamado Joe.
Answer: Some good tips for cleaning a small grill include using a grill brush to clean the cooking grates, using a degreaser to remove any built-up food or grease from the grill body and lid, and using a stainless steel cleaner to polish up any metal surfaces.
Answer: The life expectancy of a small grill can vary depending on the brand and model. However, most models have a lifespan of five years and above if they are well-maintained and used properly.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a small grill, there are many factors to consider like size, cooking surface area, and type (gas vs. electric), durability, and features such as adjustable grates or side burners.
While all of the grills on this list are small, they vary in terms of what they offer. Our top pick for the best small grill is the Weber Q1400 Electric Grill, which offers a decent amount of cooking space and features like an adjustable grate and side burner. It’s also incredibly portable, which makes it a great option for using anywhere, from an apartment balcony to an adventure camping trip.
No matter what your needs are, there is sure to be a small grill that’s perfect for you. So, whether you’re looking for something compact and easy to store, or something that offers more cooking space and versatility, we’ve got you covered. We hope this article has helped narrow down your search by giving you some top recommendations in each category of product. Happy grilling!
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