10 Best Small Gas Grills for 2022 – [Buying Guide]

It’s important to have the right tools to cook your food. Though you don’t need a grill, it does give you many other ways to prepare foods. Many times, though, you’re working with a small space. If that’s the case, the small grills you consider must be small enough to fit in the backyard.

Ultimately, you may be camping or otherwise have little space, but you still want to grill. You can do that with a small grill. These small grills have the same features as their larger counterparts, but they’re designed to take up less space.

Some people worry that a small grill is going to take them longer to cook their food. This can be the case if you choose the wrong one, but typically, the best small gas grills still do what the big ones do – just with less space necessary.

Small grill cooking isn’t all about compromise. Yes, there may be fewer burners, and you aren’t going to get that rotisserie kit, but the basics are still prevalent.

We’ve created this helpful list to showcase the best small gas grill options out there. They’re designed to take up less space and can even be portable. Make sure to look at all of them to see which options might be best.

Short on Time? Here Are Our Top 3 Small Propane Gas Grills

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9.5
Weber Spirit II E-210 Outdoor Gas Grill

Weber Spirit II E-210 Outdoor Gas Grill Best Overall

If you're looking for a truly small grill, this one might not be the best. It's full-size, but it only weighs 100 pounds and has wheels, making it an excellent small-space grill. Check it out to see if it's right for you!
9.5
Char-Broil Classic 280

Char-Broil Classic 280 2-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Grill Best Budget

As the runner-up, we really like the Char-Broil Classic grill. It only weighs 43 pounds and comes with a thin frame to be an ideal small grill. Check it out to learn more about it below!
9.5
Char-Broil Tru-Infrared Grill2Go X200

Char-Broil Tru-Infrared Grill2Go X200 Best Tabletop

For those who need true portability and want the Tru-Infrared technology that Char-Broil offers, this is the small grill for you. Its durable construction and 20-pound weight make it ideal for camping and RVs.
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Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to buying the best small grills, there are a few considerations to focus on. They all have different features, so it’s sometimes hard to choose the right one. Though all the ones listed earlier are considered the best small grills, we want to make sure you know what to think about before the purchase.

Size

The best small gas grills can be used on a patio in an apartment, while camping, and even set up on a table. However, small spaces mean that the grill can’t be too large, or it’s dangerous and impractical.

Take the time to measure where the grill is going to sit. Choose one that’s a little smaller than your space to give it some room to breathe.

Cooking Space

The best gas grills are those that have a wide cooking surface, even if they’re small. Remember, some grills are designed to look big, but once they’re opened, the cooking area is less-than-satisfactory.

Think about how you’re going to use the grill. If you just cook for yourself or two people regularly, smaller cooking areas could be suitable. However, if you entertain, consider those with wider surfaces for grilling.

Portability

We’re here to help you find the best gas grills, and portability might be a significant concern for you. If space is highly limited where you live, you may need to store it inside or move it around to different areas of the balcony. Some of them are designed for camping or being in an RV, so they’re quite portable. Others have wheels and legs that must be considered in the overall spacing and maneuverability of the grill.

Heat Distribution

Gas grills are sure to be the best choice when it comes to heat distribution. However, all gas grills aren’t created equally. There are bound to be imperfections with any brand you choose, but the ones we’ve reviewed all have decent heat distribution factors. Just remember that you’re likely to have cool and hot spots.

Build Quality

A grill must cook meat to be the best, but you also have to think about build quality. If it’s going to fall apart after a few times out or rusts with the first rainstorm, it’s not the best buy possible.

You’ve got to ensure that the grill you buy is made of the best materials and that it’s designed well. Though it’s not likely to hold up under significant abuse, it should last a long time with proper care.

Budget

Your budget is going to determine how much you can spend, but it shouldn’t be the only deciding factor. The best gas grills have all the features and components you want at a price you can afford.

Accessories

Primarily, a smaller grill isn’t going to have many accessories with it. Typically, that means the grill has a bigger footprint. However, you don’t have to skimp and always want the best. Therefore, you have to consider the accessories that mean the most to you and the spacing you’ve got for the grill.

Some accessories are considered the best option. This includes a durable stand, hooks for the grill tools, and a thermometer. Most grills have these basics as standard.

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Comparison Table

Small Gas GrillsCooking SpaceBTUsDimensionsReview
Weber Spirit II E-210 Outdoor Gas Grill360 square inches26,50048x26x57 inchesCheck Price
Char-Broil Classic 280 2-Burner Propane Grill280 square inches20,00016.9x26x17.7 inchesCheck Price
Char-Broil Tru-Infrared Grill2Go X200 Portable Propane Gas Grill200 square inches9,50023.7x15x13.6 inchesCheck Price
Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Gas Grill145 square inches5,50012.2x18x12 inchesCheck Price
Weber Genesis II E-335 3-Burner Liquid Propane Grill699 square inches12,00059x29x47 inchesCheck Price
George Foreman GP200R Portable Gas Grill200 square inches8,0007x23x17.5 inchesCheck Price
Char-Broil Performance 300 2-Burner Cabinet Gas Grill300 square inches24,00024.5×42.9×44 inchesCheck Price
Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-up Propane Grill285 square inches20,00030.25×19.19×16.13 inchesCheck Price
Char-Broil Portable 240 Liquid Propane Gas Grill240 square inches8,50016.2×24.8×13.3 inchesCheck Price
Weber Q1000 Liquid Propane Grill354 square inches14,00024.02×14.57×16.54 inchesCheck Price
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The 10 Best Small Propane Gas Grill Options

1. Weber Spirit II E-210 Outdoor Gas Grill – Best Overall

The Weber Spirit E-210 Grill is one of the best options on the market and is considered the best overall grill for smaller spaces. However, it does have a bigger footprint than some of the others, so it’s a good idea to measure spacing before buying it.

We like that the Weber Spirit E-210 is made of stainless steel for durability. There are two side shelves available, so you can hold your grilling utensils. Plus, there’s a storage area underneath to keep even more things. The propane sits to the side, so it doesn’t take any extra room to use it.

The Weber brand is excellent because it comes with the infinity electronic ignition system. Just touch a button, and it comes on and starts working.

Primarily, you’re going to focus on how well it cooks the food. We like the built-in thermometer and the porcelain-coated cooking grates. They help to ensure the food is cooked thoroughly and doesn’t stick when it’s done. Plus, you’re going to enjoy the warming rack that keeps your food piping hot until you’re ready to serve it. Since there’s a large cooking surface, you don’t have to cook in batches for the most part.

9.5Expert Score
Takeaway

For those who have more space at home and want a big surface for cooking, this is the ideal product. It's easy to clean, and the open-cart design is superb.

Pros
  • Easy to clean
  • Holds 20-pound LP tank
  • Open-cart design
  • Fuel gauge
Cons
  • Not the smallest footprint
  • Wheel placement could be better

2. Char-Broil Classic 280 2-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Grill – Best Budget

Those who want something that looks like a more traditional grill are sure to appreciate the Char-Broil Classic. It comes with or without a side burner, but we chose the one without for more portability and to keep the weight down. It’s got a slimmer footprint than the Weber brand, but it doesn’t sacrifice durability and strength. The entire thing (without the LP tank) is 43 pounds, so it’s suitable for almost any area and can easily be moved.

You’re going to appreciate the two stainless steel burners. Plus, we like that there is plenty of cooking space. Also, there are porcelain-coated grates, but the lid and firebox are also coated in the same material. That way, the entire grill is going to withstand any weather conditions.

We like that there are two metal side tables, and each one measures 12 inches wide. Therefore, you get a little extra storage space and some room to prep. They don’t fold down, so you need to factor that into the overall spacing necessary.

One of the best features that everyone can appreciate is the electronic ignition system. With it, you simply turn on the gas and press a button. The grill fires right up without any hiccups or issues.

9.5Expert Score
Takeaway

If you want extra space to hold ingredients and plates, this is the ideal grill. However, spacing could be a problem for some homeowners, as they don't fold down for storage.

Pros
  • Easy to clean
  • Piezo ignition
  • Two sturdy wheels
Cons
  • Hard to assemble
  • Might be too light and thin in construction

3. Char-Broil Tru-Infrared Grill2Go X200 Portable Liquid Propane Gas Grill – Best Tabletop

If you want a great mini grill, then the Char-Broil Grill2Go is right for you. This product is roadworthy from the moment you get it. Plus, it travels easily and doesn’t require much more than a single 1-pound propane tank.

Since it uses natural gas, you can take it almost anywhere. As long as you have a full tank (or two), you can grill regardless of where you go.

We like the cast-aluminum firebox, and the lid is made of the same material. Plus, there are stainless steel latches. The temperature gauge is built-in and made of stainless steel, as well.

This full-size grill ensures that you can cook plenty of food without having a ton of room to use it. Plus, we like the porcelain-coated grate inside. It offers better heat distribution and retention, but it also keeps the meat from sticking as you try to remove it.

You’re going to appreciate the frame because it’s designed to withstand high impacts. We don’t recommend that you drop the grill, but if it happens, it’s not likely to do much damage. It also features heavy-duty handles and legs.

The best part here is the TRU-Infrared technology to prevent flare-ups!

9.5Expert Score
Takeaway

Everyone wants Infrared technology to help them cook their meat correctly. This option is the only one on the list that does, but it's heavy and bulky, so take that into account for spacing needs.

Pros
  • High-impact frame, handles, legs
  • Made of cast-aluminum
  • Smaller and more compact for all needs
Cons
  • Quite heavy for its size
  • Can only grill at 450 degrees Fahrenheit without a separate valve purchase

4. Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Gas Grill – Best Portable

Those who want the best in portability are sure to like the Cuisinart Petit Gourmet. It’s a tabletop grill, so it’s designed to fit almost anywhere. Just make sure there’s plenty of ventilation; don’t use it directly inside a tent or RV.

This not-quite-22-inch grill sits just 12 inches tall with the stand. However, you can fold the legs down when you’re not using it. That helps with storage and ensures that the legs don’t get damaged during travel.

You’re going to appreciate that it’s very durable and high-quality. Though you shouldn’t drop it, the grill can take a little extra abuse and still work just fine.

We like that it can cook up to eight steaks or burgers, 4 pounds of fish, and up to 10 chicken breasts.

If that weren’t enough, you get a powerful stainless steel burner. The porcelain-enameled grate allows for even heat distribution. Plus, it’s going to retain the heat better.

One of the greatest things here is the aluminum legs. They are designed to be set up in mere seconds, and the stabilizing feet are made of durable rubber. That way, they don’t slide around, even on slick surfaces like wood or rocks.

There’s also a briefcase-style handle to carry it. Once it’s all folded up, it looks like any other piece of smaller luggage. You’re going to like that it only weighs 17 pounds without the tank.

9Expert Score
Takeaway

Those who don't like lighting the gas to ignite it are sure to appreciate the twist-and-ignite setting. Plus, it's compact enough to go almost anywhere.

Pros
  • Twist-to-start ignition
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Only 18 inches wide
Cons
  • Low BTU output
  • Lighter/ignition doesn’t always work right

5. Weber Genesis II E-335 3-Burner Liquid Propane Grill – Best for Traditional Style

With the Weber Genesis, you’re sure to enjoy everything about it. We like that it uses liquid propane and features the GS4 performance system for grilling. This is a Weber patent that makes it one of the best on the market.

You’re going to appreciate the side burner, which is included with this Weber grill. It sits to the right, and you can turn it off when you don’t need it. However, it’s ideal when you want to make a full meal right on the grill.

There’s a temperature gauge right on the lid, so you can leave it closed to get the perfect sear. We also like that the tank is hidden and to the side. You’ve still got a side table, and the bottom storage area is enclosed, as well.

9Expert Score
Takeaway

Everyone needs a sear station, and you have that luxury with this brand. Plus, it's digital and can be adjusted through the special app!

Pros
  • Sear station included
  • Stainless steel rod grates
  • BILT app access included
Cons
  • Need help to assemble
  • Hard to change tank because of side burner placement

6. George Foreman GP200R Portable Gas Grill

Those who want the best know that George Foreman has it all. This 22-inch grill might be the top choice for people who wish to take the grill with them on camping trips. It comes in various colors and features a shoulder strap to make it easy to carry.

We like the push-button start, which means you can fire it up fast. Plus, it can cook for four hours on a single 1-pound tank.

This grill even comes with a griddle plate. You can make 12 servings on it, so everyone can get enough, and you can fix plenty of food for the whole group. We like that this grill is dishwasher-safe, including the removable griddle plate.

8.5Expert Score
Takeaway

Those who want to do more with their grill are sure to like that this one comes with a griddle plate. Though you can't cover the meat while it cooks, it is easy to clean!

Pros
  • Easy cleanup
  • Griddle plate included
  • Portable
Cons
  • No cover while cooking
  • Igniter doesn’t always work

7. Char-Broil Performance 300 2-Burner Cabinet Gas Grill

If you’ve got a little extra space at the house and don’t need something to take camping with you, the Char-Broil Performance Grill could be the right choice. We like that it is a two-burner grill with porcelain-enameled grates and a warming rack.

The side tables are made of metal and fold down to save space when you don’t need them. You’re going to appreciate the lower storage cabinet, which holds the propane tank. There is also an electronic ignition to ensure that startup is fast and reliable.

8.5Expert Score
Takeaway

At a glance

Pros
  • Durable and stylish
  • Temperature gauge on lid
  • Has caster wheels for mobility
Cons
  • Issues with inconsistent flames
  • Difficult to assemble

8. Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-up Propane Grill

You can’t go wrong with the Coleman RoadTrip. It’s completely portable and features three adjustable burners. There are also porcelain-enameled grates, so the food doesn’t stick. The side shelves are designed with stainless steel inserts, and this is a full-size grill.

We like that the sturdy legs and wheels can be folded down, and the grill can be removed from the stand if necessary. You don’t need any matches to light it because it features a push-button ignition.

The great thing here is that the stand folds up, and you can use the wheels to transport it like wheeled luggage!

8Expert Score
Takeaway

Those who always work on a level/flat surface and require three burners can appreciate this grill. Though it takes precision to get the propane tank on, it's a great little product for various needs.

Pros
  • Three adjustable burners
  • Quick-fold legs
  • Push-button ignition
Cons
  • Must be completely level to work right
  • Have to be careful screwing the bottle on/off each time

9. Char-Broil Portable 240 Liquid Propane Gas Grill

Those who want something portable are sure to appreciate the Char-Broil 240. The legs are quite sturdy and can sit on the ground or a table. We also like the painted porcelain body because it’s strong and designed to withstand impacts.

You’re going to like the carry handles, making it easy to transport. It can be slightly bulky because the legs aren’t removable. Still, it’s a great product that holds plenty of meat.

8Expert Score
Takeaway

If you've got the time and energy to assemble it, this grill features all the things you want. Though it might be tough to move around, it's sturdy and durable.

Pros
  • Porcelain body
  • Sturdy legs
  • Lid latches easily
Cons
  • Harder to carry than advertised
  • Challenging to assemble

10. Weber Q1000 Liquid Propane Grill

The Weber Q1000 is made of aluminum, but it features a stainless steel burner. You’re going to appreciate the porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates because they’re durable and strong, but the food isn’t going to stick.

It’s completely assembled, so just take it out of the box and hook up the tank. However, you do need to preheat it for about 15 minutes before you add the meat to the grill.

Still, the infinity control burner ensures that you get even heat while the gas is running. That way, you can grill whatever you want without an issue.

7.5Expert Score
Takeaway

If you're one of those people who hate assembling anything, buy this product! Though it doesn't get super hot, it's easy to ignite. Think low and slow, and you're good to go.

Pros
  • Cast-aluminum body and lid
  • Comes fully assembled
  • Push-button ignition
Cons
  • Burner needs to be closer to heat source
  • Doesn’t get very hot
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FAQs

Is a Gas Grill Better than a Charcoal Grill?

There’s really no way that we can answer that. The choice between a natural gas or charcoal grill is one of preference. However, we can describe the differences between gas and charcoal grills so that you understand what you’re getting into.

It’s impossible to say that charcoal grills are best or better than their gas counterparts. We do feel that gas grills make it easier to control the temperature. It takes practice for a charcoal grill.

Gas is also more energy-efficient and less damaging to the environment. Plus, a small grill isn’t going to put the flames directly to the food. You can’t get the best sear here, especially if the meat is thin. This could be where charcoal is best.

Typically, gas grills require infrared burners to create such intense temperatures to seal and char the surface without being over-drying. However, the trouble is that you can only grill one or two pieces of meat at a time.

Charcoal tends to produce a smokier flavor than gas grills. Plus, the meat drippings get right on the charcoal to burn up and cause that smoke. With gas, juices hit the heat shield and don’t produce as much smoke. Make sure you think about what you want your small grill to do.

Is a Gas Grill Better than an Electric Grill?

Electric grills are often chosen for a small space, such as the kitchen. You can still get the feel from the grill without having to go outside in inclement weather. However, most electric grills can’t be used outdoors, though there are some indoor/outdoor versions that can be the best of both worlds.

Since we are talking about small grills, you can be sure that the gas ones are suitable for a small space. They’re also more versatile. You can’t take an electric grill with you on a camping trip because you don’t know if you’re going to have a power source. Though an electric grill can usually be used in an RV, it can drain the battery.

Is It Possible to Avoid Flare-ups when Using Small Gas Grills?

Flare-ups on gas grills are generally thought to be from highly fatty foods, oils, and marinades that drip onto the flames. To avoid this issue, trim any excess fat before you add the meat to the grill. Also, consider dripping off the sauces and marinades and use nonstick oil sparingly, if at all.

Since the space you’re working in is smaller by nature, which is why you’re using a small grill, you should keep a fire extinguisher and baking soda nearby at all times.

Can You Use a Small Gas Grill as a Smoker?

Yes, it is possible to use your small grill this way, but it can be difficult. Generally, we feel that it’s best to buy a separate smoker if you regularly want to smoke meat. Leave the grill as it is to sear and char the meat to perfection.

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Conclusion

Everyone focuses on getting the best products for their home. However, if you have a small space, you may worry that you can’t get a gas grill. We’ve proven that theory wrong because there are many small grills out there. Some of them can sit on a tabletop, which saves plenty of space. Others have a small footprint, making them the best choice for any household. Since they might also be portable, you can use them while RVing or camping, too! Happy grilling!

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