Winters are here, and if you like grilled food, then this ultimate buyer’s guide of best small gas grills is for you to make the right choice!
Leaving the house to go to a fancy barbecue place is old-fashioned. In fact, with so many versatile options presented online, why not create the same atmosphere inside your kitchen or balcony and have the most fun?
Many people prefer to spend this time of the year snuggled in their beach houses, hanging out with friends, so if a warm cozy indoor party is your definition of entertainment, then all you need is to head out to buy the best small gas grill that perfectly suits your style of cooking.
But wait!
What do you exactly look for in a good small gas grill? Well, it should be portable, easy-to-use and simple to clean!
But this is not all. In addition to all these features, there are many other factors that you should keep an eye on while choosing the best gas grill for your household. After all, you are going to rely on the product for the rest of the season.
Small Gas Grill Buying Guide
Even though we have compiled a list of best small gas grills for you, based on valuable reviews and recommendations by experts, you still need some guidance on the best features offered by each product before selecting the one for yourself.
When you browse through various products, you would see additional attributes and technical designs, but that comes later. What matters the most is these four major characteristics you must look out for!
Type of Fuel
First of all, think about the placement of your grill because if you select one with the option of natural gas, you would need a line attached to it. Now, this might look like a hassle, but if you are actually looking for a long-term investment, the attention can save you a lot more money and time.
Propane grills might be cheap, but you have to go to the stores to fill the tanks quite often. Lucky for you, the manufacturers are now constructing affordable grills that would run on natural gas too but until then, choose wisely because a grill with propane tank cannot run on natural gas and vice versa.
Structure and Material
Do you know the most common issue buyers face after using the gas grill for some time? It’s rusting!
Ensure that you do maximum research about the material before opting for one. Stainless steel is the ideal material even though cast iron and aluminum are also fairly popular.
You need to check and confirm that the entire grill is constructed from the stated material because often, stainless steel models are painted to give a similar impression, but they begin to rust as soon as they are exposed to humidity and wind. Rattle the structure to see if the frame has been screwed tightly and then make a decision.
Heat
The most common misconception among the buyers is that the higher the BTU rating, the more efficient the grill. However, the British Thermal Unit (BTU) just indicates the capacity of heat that the grill can produce and retain.
Consider the form of the grill and compare the BTU rating accordingly. Miniature structures like a small gas grill with side burner usually give the best results with higher temperatures as the small frames allow the heat to distribute evenly and efficiently, even with a lower BTU rating.
Money
You need to decide on a budget before considering grill shopping. Sounds familiar? Well, the more features the grill has, the more expensive it is to buy. So, when you are aware of the investment, you can look for the characteristics that you consider important and then make a choice.
Do not go overboard as many gas grills are around $1000, but they have a lot of unnecessary features that might be of no use to you. When buying a gas grill with propane fuel, you should probably ask the seller if the tank is attached to the grill because the cost of getting one separately is high.
Best Small Gas Grills In 2020
If you have already selected your price range, then the half job is already done. However, to help you make the right decision, here are some of the best small gas grills that have received the highest rating by customers and have the best features in a compact size.
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1. Char-Broil Performance 300 (Best Gas Grill For Apartment Balcony)
If you prefer your steaks and ribs well done with evenly distributed temperatures, then this is the grill you should be looking for. The production and retention of heat are maximum, and the feature fits in quite well with the form of the grill. It is not just safe to use with the container for a propane tank but also easy to clean. So say goodbye to greasy trays and oily burners with this product.
Features:
- 2-burner, 24000 BTU Cabinet Gas Grill
- 300 square inches of primary cooking on porcelain-coated cast-iron grates
- 100 square inch swing-away rack with porcelain-coated grates
- Electronic ignition
- Storage cabinet for propane tank
- 82.5 pounds
- 4 casters with 2 breaks
- Stainless steel lid and UFC
- Built-in thermometers in the grill
- Easy to move around
- Large storage space
- You can leave it on the balcony
- Can be converted to natural gas
- Fast and reliable start-ups
- Mobile and stable due to locks
- Less heat production
- Poor customer service
2. Weber 46110001 Spirit E-210 LP Grill (Amazon’s Top Choice)
This grill is an ideal choice if you are looking for advanced features of a large set-up in a compact size. It has all the qualities of large grills but with fewer burners and relatively small cooking space.
Easy to clean and carry around, this has proved to be quite popular among the buyers due to additional characteristics. As stated earlier, one of the main problems of keeping a grill outdoors is rusting, but the material of this amazing product provides maximum prevention against weather conditions.
Features:
- Porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates
- The porcelain-enameled lid and cook box
- 360 sq. inches of cooking space
- 90 sq. inches of warming rack
- Built-in thermometer
- 2 stainless steel burners
- 26 500 BTUs
- Steel propane cabinet
- Two swivel casters
- Six tool hooks
- Grease management system
- Heavy-duty caster wheels
- Easy punch electric starter button
- Hooks for easy accessibility of grilling tools
- Flavorizer burners to prevent flare-ups
- Stable base to move around on the grass
- Compact size
- Foldable warming racks
- Easy to use and clean
- Impressive grill marks on meat
- No cover
- No speed control for each burner
3. Thermos 265 2-Burner Propane Grill (Low Budget & Cost-Friendly)
If your budget is low because you’re looking for a grill with high power that caters to a small family, then this is the best option to go for. The most amazing feature of this grill is that it has tested to give the best results for the flavor of the food.
Features:
- 2 burner knobs, 26,500 BTUs
- 265 sq. inches of cooking space
- A curved handle on the lid
- Cart style
- 2 wheels
- Porcelain-coated steel lid and firebox
- Plastic side shelves with built-in hooks
- Piezo ignition system
- Easy to put together
- Separate control for each burner
- Cheap
- Withstands harsh temperatures
- Portable
- Extra storage
- Reliable start-ups
- Plastic shelves are not durable
4. Weber 57060001 Q3200 (Best Propane Gas Grill for Apartment Dwellers)
With this grill, you can easily host a large party while setting up the grill on your balcony. The best part is that it is available in both natural gas and propane tanks so wait no longer and enjoy the winters with this one of the best grills on our list.
Features:
- 2 stainless steel burners
- 21,700 BTU
- 393 square inch total cooking area
- Porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates and cast-aluminium lid and body
- Control burner valve
- Grill out handle light
- Battery type AAA
- Easy start electronic ignition
- Operates on a 20lb tank (sold separately)
- 75 square inch warming rack
- Built-in thermometer
- Two removable side tables and a bottom shelf
- Wide storage space
- Grill handle light for night-time grilling
- Glass-reinforced nylon frame for stability
- Portable
- Good heat retention
- Great cooking surface
- Aluminium is rust-resistant
- Expensive for a small grill
- Propane tank is sold separately
5. Char-Griller E3001 Grillin’ Pro (Best Small Gas Grill For Camping, Highly Durable)
Known for its durability, this grill can survive in roughest weather conditions. The sleek black look adds to the aesthetic, and if you are planning to explore hilly areas with bonfires, then this is the best small gas grill for camping. The heat is consistent within the cooking range, and the sauces and flavors blend well with the meat.
Features:
- 480 000 BTU gas grill
- 438 square inches of main grilling area
- 192 square inch warming rack
- 12 000 BTU side burner
- Durable steel construction
- Matte black
- Electronic ignition
- Large removable grease trays
- Porcelain-coated cast-iron grates
- Utensil hooks
- Shelves for handy workspace
- Easy-to-use ignition system
- Easy grease management
- Construction makes it durable
- Good heat delivery
- Reliable for outdoors
- Relatively cheap
- Difficult to assemble
- Weak plastic wheels
6. Char-Broil Classic 280 (Best Small Gas Grill With Side Burner)
If you are a fan of side dishes with your roasts and steaks, then opt for Char-Broil Classic 280. This has become popular due to its mobile and portable structure. With huge cooking and storage space, this is the best small gas grill for RV if you are considering a road trip. Not to mention, it is available with and without side burners.
- 280 square inches of cooking space
- Porcelain-coated grates
- 80 000 BTU side burner
- Two stainless steel in-line burners
- Porcelain-coated steel lid and firebox
- Metal side shelves measuring 12-inches w x 13 inches
- Two 6-inch molded plastic wheels
- Piezo ignition system
- Heats up fast
- Easy to move
- Components packaged precisely
- Easy to clean grates
- Assembling is easy
- Additional grill for side dishes
- Extra space for tools
- Care required while opening the lid
- Thin firebox
7. Masterbuilt 205 Stainless Steel (Cheapest Tabletop Gas Grill For Indoor Fun)
Shaped like a dome, this grill has been updated with compact size and made perfect for indoor use. It is made of stainless steel and is easy to clean. So if you are planning to host a small party with your loved ones, all you need is to just set it up in your kitchen and start grilling burgers and hot dogs.
Features:
- Foldable thick legs
- Large carrying handle
- 205 square inch of total cooktop space
- 105 square inch of chrome-plated warming rack
- 10,000 BTUs
- 27 inch long, 17 inches wide and 12 inch high
- Stainless steel drip tray for grease management
- Lid locks and legs fold so easy to carry
- Temperature gauge in the lid
- Doesn’t heat evenly
8. Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Tabletop Gas Grill (Amazon’s Choice For Best Aesthetics)
Popular for its bright red color and sleek aesthetics, this grill is yet heavyweight and chunky. You can take this small set up on road trips or place it on your apartment balcony for grilling chicken and steaks. It has the capacity to cook eight burgers at a time, and the sturdy legs keep the structure steady.
Features:
- Foldable Aluminium legs
- 145 square inches cooking area
- 5500 BTU output
- Stainless steel burner
- Porcelain-enameled grate
- Integrated lid lock
- Pronounced brief-case style carrying handle
- 13.5 pounds of weight
- Portable
- Even heating
- High stability
- Locks make it secure
- Easy to clean
- Small cooking surface
Recommended For You: Best Propane Gas Grills Under $1500
9. Blackstone Griddle Station (Best Outdoor Flat Top Gas Grill)
This has been tested by experts and given the best reviews for outdoor cooking. From breakfast pancakes to dinner steaks, you can prepare any item using this flat top gas grill, and we guarantee that you would not be disappointed. You can easily take this small gas grill for trips or just to your local beach. So, how about throwing an exciting winter party?
Features:
- 470 square inches of flat top grilling
- A bottom shelf and two side shelves
- Battery-powered push-button ignition
- Removable top
- Foldable legs
- Four industrial strength caster wheels
- Powder-coated black steel frame
- Two independently controlled stainless steel burners
- 15 000 BTU
- Propane storage tank
- Easy to assemble
- Portable
- Catch pan for grease management
- Whole grill folds up
- Burner tubes are durable
- The thickly-coated base for prevention against rust
- No lid or cover
10. Coleman Propane Grill (Overall Top Selling Portable Gas Grills)
Tired on carrying large chunky grills on picnics? With this small gas grill, you can bid farewell to the hassle of carrying around large barbecue stations as this one can fold and fit right inside your car. It gives the same result as huge grilling stations and caters to 6-10 people at a time. This is, indeed, the best choice for a family to spend some amusing time together.
Features:
- Delivers 20 000 BTUs of heat
- 285 square inches of grilling surface
- Swaptop interchangeable cooktops
- Start button ignition
- Collapsible design
- Two temperature zones
- Easy to carry around
- No need for matchstick or lighter
- You can switch grill grates
- Ideal for camping
- Pot support is sold separately
FAQ’s
Need More Answers?
Since now you can easily choose the best small gas grill for your household from the products mentioned above or browse through other stores to find something new, don’t forget to consider all the features and information shared in our buyer’s guide. However, if you still have some queries, continue reading as we have answered some of the most common questions below.
1. Why won’t my gas grill get hot enough?
Your gas grill contains a safety feature present in the gas regulator that drops the efficiency of heat prediction by 10%. So even though there is no break, the grill automatically lowers the flame.
To reset this option, open the lid and ensure that all the burner knobs are switched off. Then, turn on the gas from the line or tank, so the pressure pushes the safety valve back, and once this is done, switch on the burners to their maximum temperature. After closing the lid, if the heat is retained, then that’s your solution.
2. What to do if I hear a hissing sound from my grill?
First of all, do not touch the grill until all the burners have been switched off through knobs. Do not open the tank or gas regulator unless you are sure that there is no flame inside. Once the burners are switched off, cut off the supply from tank or lines, so there is no danger of explosion.
Cutting off the gas supply should stop the hissing sound so when your grill cools down, immediately check it for gas leaks. However, if the hissing sound does not stop, contact the manufacturer or call a technician as soon as possible.
3. How to keep my gas grill clean?
Now, after a fun yet tiring day of barbecue, cleaning the grill might seem like a tedious task, and you would try to avoid it. But to ensure that your product works just as efficiently the next time, it is important to maintain it.
Use a paper towel to clean the outside of the grill to remove grease stains or leftover meat. If your grill is made of stainless steel, then use the cleaner and towel to wipe the sides and container of the structure.
Now the most important thing that should be cleaned is the cooking box so get a brush and after the grill is cool, remove all the flavorizer racks and grates and slowly move all the leftovers to the bottom tray to avoid blockage.
4. How to prevent flare-ups?
Low maintenance and grease usually cause flare-ups so ensure that your grill is always clean. Do not leave it unattended while the food is cooking as it might become uncontrollable in seconds. For a safety measure, preheat your grill before using it so that all the excess grease and fat turn to ashes, and you can easily discard them using a brush. Avoid putting too much oil and fats in your food, so your grill remains clean.
Final Words – Conclusion
While there is a lot to consider while buying a gas grill, following this guide will certainly make half of the job easier. Do not hesitate to ask questions about the features from the seller and don’t forget to compare prices before settling on one.
Without forgetting, small gas grills are a long-term investment, so make sure you make a sound decision and purchase the one that best suits your cooking style.
After all, spending time on your grill’s maintenance and storing it in a dry and secure place is the only sure-fire way to make it durable and long-lasting. Happy Grilling!
- Best Gas Grills Under $500 – Reviews & Detailed Buying Guide - May 4, 2020
- Best Propane Gas Grills Under $300 & $400 For Outdoor BBQ Activities - February 17, 2020
- Best Budget Gas Grills Under $200 [2022] - February 3, 2020
Last update on 2023-03-21 at 02:00 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API