If you prioritize portability over cooking performance, consider our runner-up pick. When the side tables are tucked inside the grill for transport, the Weber Q 1200 is about the size of a small carry-on suitcase. You need two hands to carry the Q 1200, because it doesn’t have a latch to hold the lid securely to the firebox. But the position of the side handles helps to evenly distribute its 30-pound heft and lessens the burden of hoisting and moving the grill. A temperature dial lets you control the heat easily and quickly, just as on a kitchen range.
While you’ll probably use the wheels to move it around, at 90 pounds, many people may even be able just to pick it up and move it. Once assembled, the Char-Broil Performance 475 is effortless Blackstone Adventure to use thanks to its well thought out design and features. In case you get stuck, there are several tutorial videos available online for help if you need it during the assembly process.
Its primary cooking area and warming rack can’t take more than eight to ten burgers at a time. Although it’s an outdoor unit, the Performance 300 grill doesn’t take up much space. However, we also found that youcan add exciting flavors with wood chipswhen cooking or grilling on it.
But vents are also important for the airflow required to keep your coals lit. We found that a vent in the top of the lid and another in the belly of the firebox created the best air circulation. Vents should remain easily accessible and swivel freely for fast temperature adjustments.
After testing five propane models, we’re confident that the Weber Q 1200 Gas Grill is the best portable gas grill. In our tests, the Q 1200 outperformed the competition at both high-heat searing and low-and-slow grilling, with the fewest flare-ups. It has a cast-aluminum firebox that evenly distributes heat across its 189-square-inch grilling grate. We like the spacious dome lid with a built-in thermometer that lets you know when it’s hot and ready to grill. The small fold-out side tables are convenient for keeping grill tools within reach. And its roomy handles make this 30-pound grill comfortable for one person to carry, too.
Before putting the grill away for the season, give the inside a good scrubbing with lots of hot soapy water and rinse well. Shield your grill from the elements to keep it from rusting or prematurely aging. If you lack an indoor storage option, keeping the grill covered and off the ground is the best line of defense against harsh weather. Weber makes affordable covers for both the Q 1200 and Q 2200 , and we strongly recommend the investment.
If you want a more compact propane grill, the Char-Broil Portable Grill2Go X200 Gas Grill is designed for one-handed toting. This portable grill is slightly larger than a briefcase and keeps the lid, grate, and firebox tightly packed for transporting. In our tests, the Grill2Go produced intense heat that was ideal for searing steaks but had us battling some flare-ups when cooking chicken pieces. Although we wouldn’t want the Grill2Go as a primary patio grill, it’s a decent dedicated portable for camping and tailgating.
Moreover, nearly 63% say that grilling is a healthy hobby of theirs. Keeping coals lit in the Weber Smokey Joe Charcoal Grill 14″ was a challenge for us. This smaller Weber kettle comes equipped with only one vent, located in the lid.