Here’s an overview of the Best Portable Grills that we’ll explore today:
Portable grills have evolved from basic camp stoves to capable, feature-rich outdoor cooking solutions that fit in trunks, backpacks, or small patios. They matter for campers, tailgaters, and casual cooks who demand reliable heat, easy setup, and versatility without sacrificing portability. In this review, I test and compare five compact grills across gas and charcoal formats, balancing price, performance, and usability. My methodology includes: evaluating heat output (BTU equivalent and real-world performance), temperature control, assembly effort, durability, portability (weight, size, and handle design), maintenance, and overall value for different use cases. The lineup spans budget charcoal options to premium stand-up propane grills, featuring trusted brands Cuisinart, Coleman, and Char-Broil.
1. Cuisinart Chef’s Style Tabletop Portable Propane Gas Grill
- Brand: Cuisinart
- Manufacturer: Cuisinart
Overview: This two-burner propane tabletop grill delivers 20,000 BTUs total with independent knobs and Twist-Start ignition. It features stainless steel grates for improved heat distribution and a locking lid with folding legs for camp symmetry and transport. Weighing 22 pounds, it aims to balance power with portability and offers a respectable 275 square inches of cooking area for a compact unit.
Performance and usability: With two 10,000 BTU burners, you can create dual heat zones for searing and gentle cooking simultaneously. The integrated thermometer helps with real-time temperature tracking, while the locking lid and carry handle make transport stable. In practice, the grill heats quickly and maintains more consistent temps than many entry-level gas grills, though the absence of a side tray or integrated propane management means users should pre-measure fuel and plan for longer cookouts. Cleanup is straightforward thanks to stainless grates and a relatively accessible ash-free design for gas systems.
Pros
- Strong 20,000 BTU total output with independent burners
- Stainless steel grates promote even heating and durability
- Fast, tool-free setup and portable foldable design
- Integrated thermometer and Twist-start ignition improve control
- Locking lid and carrying handle aid transport
Cons
- No built-in side shelves or additional workspace
- No built-in grease tray (gas-specific); cleanup requires organizer planning
2. Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill with 3 Adjustable Burners
- Brand: Coleman
- Manufacturer: Coleman
Overview: The RoadTrip 285 is a stand-up, three-burner propane grill offering up to 20,000 BTUs, a 285 square inch cooking area, and a wheeled stand for easy mobility. It includes an integrated thermometer, Instastart ignition, side tables, a grease tray, and wheels, making it a versatile choice for backyard grill-outs, tailgates, and camping scenarios that require more surface area and stable transport.
Performance and usability: Three independent burners provide fine-grained temperature control across a larger cook surface, improving multitasking capabilities for different foods. The stand-up frame with wheels simplifies setup and takedown, but it adds weight (46.7 pounds) versus compact table-top options. The grill uses standard propane cylinders and ships with a sturdy build, though you’ll want to stock a compatible 1-pound or 16.4 oz cylinder separate from purchase. Overall, it excels for weekend gatherings where space and power are available.
Pros
- Three adjustable burners enable precise temperature zoning
- Large 285 sq. in. cooking area supports multiple dishes
- Integrated thermometer and Instastart ignition for ease of use
- Stand-up design with wheels for easy transport
- Grease tray and side tables add practical workspace
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than tabletop options
- Requires separate propane cylinder purchase
- Higher price point for a portable, shift-ready unit
3. Cuisinart 14″ Portable Charcoal Grill
- Brand: Cuisinart
- Manufacturer: Cuisinart
Overview: This compact charcoal grill weighs roughly 4 pounds with a 196 square inch cooking surface. It features dual vents for temperature control, a locking lid with secure latches, and an enamel-coated firebox designed for quick, portable setups. It’s ideal for camping, tailgating, or small gatherings where charcoal flavor is preferred and space is at a premium.
Performance and usability: The dual venting system provides more nuanced airflow control than many entry-level charcoal grills, enabling both high-heat searing and slow cooking. The enamel-coated ash catcher simplifies cleanup, though the overall capacity is limited compared to larger charcoal units. Its portability is excellent for travel, making it a preferred option for hikers or picnics where weight and compact footprint trump continuous large-scale cooking.
Pros
- Lightweight at about 4 pounds with compact 14″ footprint
- Dual vents offer precise temperature management
- Locking lid and secure latches for secure transport
- Enamel-coated firebox and ash catcher simplify cleanup
- Solid chrome-plated cooking grate for durability
Cons
- Limited cooking area (196 sq in) compared to larger grills
- Charcoal flavor requires fuel handling and ash management
4. Charbroil Portable Convective 1-Burner Propane Gas Grill – 465133010
- Brand: Char-Broil
- Manufacturer: Char-Broil
Overview: A compact, single-burner propane gas grill with 190 square inches of cooking space and a powder-coated finish. It emphasizes portability and straightforward operation, making it a viable option for tight spaces, balconies, or quick grill sessions while traveling.
Performance and usability: The single burner delivers steady heat suitable for straightforward meals, but it lacks the multi-zone control of larger gas grills. Porcelain-coated grates resist rust and cleaning is straightforward, yet the limited surface area can constrain group cooking. For buyers prioritizing minimal footprint and low price, this grill offers reliable gas grilling with reasonable durability in a small package.
Pros
- Very compact and lightweight for travel
- Porcelain-coated grates resist rust and ease cleanup
- Simple operation with straightforward fuel use
- Durable, high-temperature finish supports outdoor use
Cons
- Only one burner limits temperature zoning
- Very small cooking area may require multiple batches
- Limited accessories and workspace compared to others
5. Coleman RoadTrip 225 Portable Propane Grill
- Brand: Coleman
- Manufacturer: Coleman
Overview: The RoadTrip 225 offers 11,000 BTUs across two burners on a portable stand, delivering 225 square inches of cooking space, InstaStart lighting, and a compact foldable frame. It is designed for versatile outdoor use—from beach to campsite—with a warranty and portability in mind.
Performance and usability: The two burners provide balanced heat with more control than a single-burner unit, suitable for family outings or tailgates where you need manageable cooking for multiple items. Being the lighter Coleman option in this lineup, setup is straightforward and the unit folds for transport. The main trade-off is power and area relative to RoadTrip 285, but it still provides reliable camping-grade performance with a strong community support network and accessory ecosystem.
Pros
- Two burners enable dual-zone cooking
- InstaStart ignition for quick lighting
- Compact stand-up design with wheels for portability
- 225 sq in cooking area suits small to mid-size gatherings
- 3-year limited warranty offers peace of mind
Cons
- Lower BTU total (11,000) vs RoadTrip 285
- Smaller surface area limits cooking for larger groups
- Requires separate fuel cylinder purchase
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about portable grillss to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Final thoughts: This lineup demonstrates that portable grilling has matured to offer choices tailored to different use cases—compact, high-heat charcoal for flavor; multi-burner gas grills for versatility and speed; and stand-up designs for mobility without sacrificing cooking area.
For casual travelers and budget-conscious buyers, the Cuisinart 14″ charcoal unit offers undeniable portability and flavor. For families or tailgaters needing multi-item capacity and easier transport, the Coleman RoadTrip 285 is the standout.
If you want a reliable all-around gas option with excellent heat control in a manageable size, the Cuisinart CGG-306 delivers robust performance at a reasonable price. For budget-conscious gas grilling with essential features, Char-Broil’s single-burner unit provides solid value..