However, the surface area of the grill also plays a significant role in uniform heat distribution. In fact, most modern grills optimize the ratio between the two for the best performance. Also, do keep in mind the amount of food that you will be cooking and choose the cooking surface area accordingly. There are a few choices when it comes to the best portable propane grill. Our top pick, the Weber Q1200 portable grill, is great for anyone looking for an all-around capable grill with plenty of built-in features. Setting up the Davy Crockett took more time than a standard portable grill but still wasn’t difficult.
With just a push of the electric ignition button, it can deliver 12,000 BTU-per-hour. The burner valve is designed to allow precise temperature controls through a knob. Pellet grills use wood pellets as a fuel and are equipped with a digital thermostat for effective temperature control. The control system feeds the right amount of pellets in the burner to reach the required temperature and the smoke is circulated by a fan to provide a distinct flavor to the food.
We grew frustrated at the number of times we had to re-light this model in high winds. The Weber Q 1200 comes with a disposable aluminum drip tray insert that you can place in the more permanent drip tray. This is nice for aiding with cleanup, but it’s not very wind-resistant, so it usually ended up on the ground after flying away in windy conditions. This can be remedied by doing away with this disposable part or just by putting a rock in it.
It’s compatible with 1-pound propane tanks, but there is an adapter for 20-pound tanks. We sent popular models to our expert home reviewers for testing, with them assessing each model on everything from how easy it was to set up to cooking performance to the final cleanup. Some of the things we love the most about the Camp Chef Portable Pellet tie directly to its weaknesses. Not only is the ignitor electric, but so is the auger that feels pellets from the hopper into the grill, which means that this grill needs to be plugged into an AC outlet.
For our kabobs, we looked at how evenly the grill roasted when the lid was closed, checking for even cooking in the meat. So many portable grills require users to either squat over them or procure a tabletop on which they can be placed. The Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill sets itself apart by including its own stand. Although the stand—a hefty 50 pounds—does add to the RoadTrip’s weight, it’s easier to move than many lighter grills.
It should be easy to get underneath those burgers and flip them over. All products featured on Epicurious are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
That alone makes the Cuisinart a great ultra-light, budget-priced grill, despite its shortcomings, of which there are a few. As one of the lightest portable grills on the market, the Cuisinart CCG190 Portable Charcoal Grill is one of the easiest grills to take to a park or tailgating event. It weighs just 2 pounds and features latches that hold the lid to the base, allowing it to be carried by the lid handle.
I suggest keeping a backup gas lighter during outdoor trips as the ignition may not work well in windy conditions. Lastly, I have to say that the unit is very well balanced and is very stable once you place it on a flat surface. Cast-iron grates are durable but require frequent cleaning and oiling.
The Weber Go-Anywhere grill has a porcelain-enameled steel cooking grate, as well as a push-button ignition and glass-reinforced nylon handles. One of the grill’s coolest features is its plated weber genesis 2 steel legs, which can be pivoted up to lock the lid in place during transportation. The compact form and affordable price make this grill an unbeatable option for the beach, camping, and more.