Do you love to fire up the grill but only have a small space to set it up in? Or perhaps you are planning a camping trip and want to be able to enjoy a barbeque underneath the stars. In both cases, a large and bulky grill simply won’t fit the bill.
Fortunately, there are loads of small grills on sale that have been created to meet your needs perfectly. These models come in a wide range of different styles and promise to make grilling especially easy.
So, let’s take a look at some of the best small grills on the market to help you find the perfect one for you…
The Best Small Grills Reviews
1. Weber 741001 Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill
While cooking on a grill can be a real treat, the mess that comes with it can be a bit of a put-off. Few people truly look forward to having to scrape pieces of charred food and burned fat off the grill, as this can be a rather hot, messy, and time-consuming task.
Easy does it…
This will not be an issue when you choose the Weber 741001 Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill. This model comes complete with the company’s patented One-Touch cleaning system which has been specially designed to make the clean-up an absolute breeze.
We like the built-in ash catcher the most…
This model boasts a built-in ash catcher that further helps to eliminate the amount of mess you have to deal with. The ceramic lid on this model also helps to seal in the heat so that your food cooks very quickly and it takes just fifteen minutes to set up this grill from scratch, making it easy enough for grilling novices to use with confidence.
Due to the compact design of this model, you are provided with a reduced amount of cooking space. Still, it is possible to cook up to thirteen burgers at a time, which is sure to be sufficient to satisfy the needs of most groups.
Designed specifically to be compact, you will need an extra surface for prep…
This model is set on wheels, which makes it easy to maneuver it into the desired position. However, this compact grill does not come with food preparation side tables. This means that you will need to have access to additional surfaces for preparing and serving food.
PROS
- One-Touch cleaning system.
- Set with a durable, plated, steel cooking grate.
- Enough space for up to 13 burgers.
- Boasts a porcelain-enameled lid and bowl.
- Designed to retain heat for long periods.
CONS
- Does not feature food preparation tables.
2. Kamado Joe Kj13rh Joe Jr Charcoal Grill
With its bright and bold design, this grill really stands out from the crowd. The Kamado Joe KJ13RH Joe Jr Charcoal Grill resembles an egg that has been painted bright red and it is set on a sturdy stand for optimum convenience, whilst also keeping it compact.
But is it just a pretty face?
This model has been created from fiberglass case-wire mesh that is particularly durable. The lid also fits snugly to provide an airtight seal for fast and even cooking. However, the control tower vent is set with aluminum to help make it very easy to lift when needed.
If you want to be able to cook several different types of foods simultaneously, you are sure to appreciate this model. This is made possible by the special heat deflectors and you will be able to enjoy both indirect and direct grilling, at the same time.
Remains compact in design, even with a 13-inch grilling grid…
As a bonus, this small grill comes fully assembled to save you time and trouble. The 13-inch grilling grid that is set into the design is sure to be enough for even large and very hungry groups. However, the compact design of this model makes it easy to store when it is not in use.
If you enjoy precision cooking, you may find that the lack of a programmed temperature controller is cause for concern. However, the Kamado Joe KJ13RH Joe Jr Charcoal Grill is known for maintaining very even temperatures and the large, built-in thermometer on the lid will let you know what’s going on at all times.
PROS
- Set with a 304 stainless steel cooking grate.
- Comes with a built-in thermometer.
- Features a ceramic heat reflector.
- Boasts an eye-catching, compact design.
- Sits on a sturdy stand.
CONS
- Does not feature a programmed temperature controller.
- Does not come with preparation tables.
3. Weber 65010001 Genesis Ii E-210 Natural Gas Grill
Just because you need a small grill, it doesn’t mean that you have to cut back on cooking space. The Weber 65010001 Genesis II E-210 Natural Gas Grill provides an impressive 380 square inches of cooking space. This is sure to be sufficient for large groups to eat together.
Boasts an impressive rustproof firebox too…
There are plenty of enhanced features that make this model stand out for us and the rustproof firebox is especially impressive. The grill is designed to deliver even and consistent heat so that your food cooks very quickly too.
You are sure to appreciate the stainless steel side preparation tables the most, and these tables fold into the sides of the grill to help make it easy to store. Then, the additional grill rack and table at the bottom provide you with even more storage space for all your accessories!
Going the distance…
This mighty model comes complete with a ten-year warranty. However, it boasts a very strong and sturdy design, so you can be sure that it will last a lot longer than that.
It is a little bulky if you’re looking for a small grill though…
While this is a compact grill, it is far from being the smallest grill on the market. The total weight and bulkiness of this model mean that it is not really portable either. However, if you are looking for a small grill that will remain in one location, this is one of the best options around.
PROS
- Set with two high-performance stainless steel burners.
- Provides 380 square inches of cooking space.
- Supplied with a 10-year warranty.
- Boasts stainless steel side preparation stations.
- Features a rustproof firebox.
CONS
- A little bulky.
- Not really portable.
4. Char-Broil Classic 280 2-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Grill
With its sleek and stylish design, it is clear that this grill means business. The Char-Broil Classic 280 2-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Grill is set with two stainless steel burners and these burners are impressively powerful as they are accompanied by an 8,000 BTU side burner.
The porcelain grates are porcelain-coated and rust-resistant to make them highly durable and easy to clean. They provide you with a large cooking area that is particularly versatile too. In fact, you can cook up to twelve, large and juicy burgers, at the same time.
The side burner can also be used to prepare your side dishes and there are further shelves on either side of the grill for all of your preparation items. We also like that the bottom of the grill is set on wheels. This makes it easy to move into the desired position for easy cooking.
The piezo ignition system makes firing it up a breeze…
Trying to light your grill is sure to be quick and easy when you choose this model since the Char-Broil Classic 280 2-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Grill comes complete with a piezo ignition system. This makes it possible to fire up the grill at the single touch of a button.
Still, we have some complaints…
However, it should be noted that this model does not come with a lid or thermometer. This can make getting your cooking timings just right a little tricky, especially if you are still a grilling novice. The fact that the side shelves do not fold down also means that this model is a bit on the bulky side too.
PROS
- Provides 280 square inches of cooking space.
- Set with porcelain-coated grates.
- Boasts a piezo ignition system.
- Features side preparation stations.
- Comes with a 5-year warranty.
CONS
- Does not come with a thermometer.
- The side shelves do not fold.
- A little on the bulky side.
5. Fuego F21c-H Element Hinged Propane Gas Grill
Are you ready for something completely different? With its tower-like design, the Fuego F21C-H Element Hinged Propane Gas Grill is remarkably compact. This model is also very sturdy and is set on wheels so that you can easily wheel it into position.
Created by an Apple designer? Look forward to testing those tech features …
This mighty model has been created by the former chief designer of Apple so, as you would expect, it utilizes several innovative technological features. Despite its compact design, you are treated to a fairly impressive 346 square inches of cooking space too.
Turning up the heat…
To fire up the grill, all you need to do is push a single button. The dual heating zones reach very high temperatures in record time and maintain consistent heat throughout. In fact, this model is able to reach up to 500°F in just five minutes!
We appreciate the specially designed residue tray…
Keeping this grill clean is designed to be quick and easy due to the brand new and innovative residue removal system. As your food cooks, the excess grease drops straight off and is collected in a specially designed residue tray.
Pity there’s no extra storage space though…
The only real downside is the fact that you are not provided with any storage spaces for your accessories. You will also need to make sure that you have an extra table or flat surface to serve your food on. Still, this is a relatively small drawback for a grill that is so compact and versatile and we think it is one of the best small propane grills out there.
PROS
- Delivers 22,000 BTUs.
- Provides 346 square inches of cooking space.
- Boasts a compact design.
- Heats evenly, without hotspots.
- The burner comes with a 3-year warranty.
CONS
- Does not come with side tables.
6. George Foreman Gfo3320gm Indoor/Outdoor Gun Metal Electric Grill
George Foreman is one of the best-known names in the world of cooking appliances. The company has created a wide range of different types of grills and other appliances over the years and George Foreman products are known for being superior in durability and versatility.
But is this small grill actually any good?
While this model is compact, the circular grill provides 240 square inches of cooking space which makes it possible to cook for large groups. You are provided with a domed lid, which also helps to make the cooking process suitably quick and easy.
Grilling novices will not have any problems…
This mighty model allows you to cook everything from thick and juicy steaks to burgers, and even pizzas! The fully adjustable temperature control makes the whole process relatively easy too. In fact, even grilling novices are sure to be able to get to grips with this model straight away.
Great for picnics and camping trips too…
The overall design of this model is compact and lightweight. This helps to make it the perfect companion for picnics and camping trips. All you need is a power outlet and you will be able to enjoy versatile cooking virtually anywhere you want.
It’s even suitable for indoor use…
One of the greatest things about this model is that it comes with a removable stand. It is suitable for indoor use and allows you to cook and serve right on the kitchen table! This is ideal for gatherings when the weather unexpectedly takes a turn for the worst and we believe this is one of the best small electric grills on the market.
PROS
- Features an adjustable temperature control.
- Provides 240 square inches of cooking space.
- Free from PTFE and PFOA.
- Includes a dishwasher-safe drip tray.
- Boasts a removable stand.
- Suitable for indoor use.
CONS
- Removing the grill from the base can be tricky.
7. Char-Broil 17602047 Infrared Electric Patio Bistro
Do you crave the delicious smoky flavor that traditional grills are known for? Many modern grills are designed to run on propane or even electricity and while these energy sources are cleaner, they can often result in your grilled food being a little on the bland side.
This will not be an issue when you choose the Char-Broil 17602047 Infrared Electric Patio Bistro. It is designed to provide the perfect balance between convenience and flavor so, while this model runs on electricity, your food will be infused with a delicious smoky flavor.
Great, spacious side tables…
You are sure to appreciate the large side tables that are built into the design of this grill. These side tables are particularly large and sturdy to provide the extra space that you need. As a result, preparing and serving your food is sure to be quick, convenient, and easy.
No risk of flare-ups…
No matter what you want to cook, you can be sure that it will be relatively quick and easy since the electric TRU-Infrared cooking system cooks food very evenly, without the risk of flare-ups. From charing red peppers to cooking thick steaks to perfection, no task is too challenging for this mighty grill.
One complaint…
This model does not come with a handle in the lid. As a result, moving this small grill can be a bit tricky, particularly when it is hot. It should also be noted that the Char-Broil 17602047 Infrared Electric Patio Bistro is definitely not suitable for indoor use, but it sure will look great on your deck!
PROS
- Provides 240 square inches of cooking space.
- Set with the patented Electric TRU-Infrared cooking system.
- Features a temperature control knob.
- Comes with folding side shelves.
- The side tables fold down.
CONS
- Does not come with a handle.
Best Small Grill Buying Guide
If you are choosing from the numerous small grills on the market, you will want to make sure you make the right decision. Therefore, it is important to consider your specific needs carefully.
Here are some key factors that you should have in mind when you are checking out your options.
Size Matters
If you are looking for a smaller grill, you will want it to be as compact as possible. It will be particularly useful if the model you choose comes with foldaway parts as this will mean that you are provided with extra space during operation, whilst still making the grill easy enough to store.
The Cooking Area
While bigger is generally better, the grill size you choose will depend on your specific needs. If you are cooking for four people, you will need a cooking area of between 300 and 400 hundred square inches as this will allow you to cook several burgers, steaks, and other items at the same time.
Warming Area
Being able to cook food in large batches is very convenient, especially if you are throwing a party.
A suitable warming area will allow you to cook a lot of food at once, so you don’t spend the whole party slaving over the grill. Therefore, a small grill that comes complete with a built-in warming area is sure to be the best option for you.
The Workspace
If you are a true barbeque lover, you probably want to take a hands-on approach. Having preparation stations that are built into your grill will add an extra touch of convenience for you.
This also eliminates the need for you to leave the grill unattended and risk young children playing with it if you’re running into the house to do prep.
Portability
Although small grills tend to be portable, some are more portable than others. Choosing a small grill that has wheels on the base makes it easy to move the grill into the desired position.
Then, if you are looking for a grill to take on picnics, make sure the model fits in the trunk of your car!
Stability
The last thing you want is for your grill to tip over while you are cooking. Therefore, it is essential to make sure that the model you choose is suitably sturdy.
Ideally, the grill should come with a cover or hood to help prevent flare-ups and spattering too.
Ease Of Cleaning
Nobody wants to have to spend hours scraping burnt grease and charred food off the grill. Therefore, you will want to make sure that the model you choose is relatively easy to clean. This will be ensured if the grates are porcelain-coated and a special drip tray is provided.
Durability
After you have chosen the perfect small grill, you will want it to last for as long as possible. The durability of the grill is generally reflected by the type of warranty that it is supplied with, and it is important to make sure that the warranty covers the whole grill and not just the burners.
Love Grilling? Check Out These Other Great Products
There are some genuinely useful products out there to improve your overall grilling experience. Do check out our reviews for the Best Grill Cleaners, the Best Grill Covers, the Best Instant Read Meat Thermometers, the Best Wifi Meat Thermometers, the Best BBQ Gloves, the Best Burger Presses and, the Best Grill Lights.
Which Of These Best Small Grills Are We Using?
For us, the…
Weber 65010001 Genesis II E-210 Natural Gas Grill
…provides all the key features of a large grill. However, it still boasts a suitably compact design that is ideal for small spaces and easy storage.
The warming rack that comes with this model is particularly useful and we love that it tucks away when not in use.
This warming rack allows you to cook large batches of food on the 380 square inches of cooking space and the foldaway, stainless steel side tables also help to make preparing and serving your food a breeze. We love it.
Happy grilling!
