Best Small Gas Grills for Compact Spaces – Top Portable BBQ Picks

Looking for the best small gas grills? Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, having a reliable and efficient gas grill can make all the difference in your outdoor cooking experience. In this buying guide, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when choosing the perfect small gas grill for your needs.

Choose Your Configuration

When selecting a gas grill, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is the configuration: built-in gas grills or freestanding gas grills. Each option offers its own unique benefits and features to enhance your grilling experience.

Built-in Gas Grills

Built-in gas grills, also referred to as grill heads or inserts, are designed to be a permanent fixture in your outdoor kitchen. These grills are typically installed in BBQ islands or built into an existing outdoor countertop.

One of the main advantages of built-in gas grills is their cohesive aesthetic. They seamlessly blend into your outdoor space, creating a professional and polished look. Built-in gas grills also offer a larger cooking surface area, allowing you to cook for larger groups or host outdoor events with ease.

Freestanding Gas Grills

On the other hand, if you prefer more flexibility and mobility, freestanding gas grills are a great option. These grills are placed on movable carts, which often feature enclosed storage space for your grilling accessories, utensils, and propane tanks.

Freestanding gas grills offer the convenience of being able to move and reposition the grill as needed. Whether you want to grill in your backyard, on your patio, or even take it with you to a friend’s house, the portability of freestanding gas grills allows for greater versatility. Additionally, some models come with side burners, providing you with additional cooking options beyond the grill surface.

Ultimately, the choice between built-in gas grills and freestanding gas grills depends on your personal preference, space availability, and intended use. Consider factors such as the overall look and feel of your outdoor kitchen, the size and mobility of the grill, and the features that best align with your grilling needs.

Determine Your Gas Type

When choosing a gas grill, it’s essential to consider the type of gas it uses. The two main options are natural gas and propane gas. Each type has its advantages and considerations to keep in mind.

Natural Gas Grills

Natural gas grills are the perfect choice for homes with existing natural gas lines. These grills connect directly to your home’s gas supply, providing a continuous and convenient fuel source. With a natural gas grill, you don’t have to worry about running out of fuel, as it is always readily available. This makes it ideal for consistent and frequent grilling sessions. Additionally, using natural gas is usually more cost-effective than propane in the long run.

Propane Gas Grills

If you don’t have access to a natural gas line, propane gas grills are a great alternative. Propane tanks are widely available and easy to refill, making it a convenient option for homeowners. Propane gas grills offer mobility, allowing you to position the grill wherever you prefer in your outdoor space. They are also popular for camping trips, tailgating, or any outdoor adventures that require a portable grilling option.

When choosing between natural gas grills and propane gas grills, consider the availability and convenience of your preferred gas type. Whether you have a natural gas line or rely on propane tanks, both options provide efficient and enjoyable grilling experiences.

Next, let’s explore how the size of the grill can impact your cooking experience.

Choose Your Grill Size

When it comes to selecting the right gas grill, size matters. The size of the grill determines the cooking surface area and the number of burners available. Whether you’re cooking for a small family or hosting a large gathering, choosing the appropriate grill size is essential for optimal grilling performance.

Small Gas Grills

Small gas grills are perfect for those with limited outdoor space or grilling needs. These compact grills offer enough cooking surface area to prepare full meals for small families or a dozen burgers. Despite their smaller size, they are still equipped with essential features to enhance your grilling experience.

Medium Gas Grills

If you need more cooking space and flexibility, medium gas grills are a great choice. With a larger cooking surface area and additional burners, you can create indirect heat zones and experiment with different grilling techniques. Medium-sized grills are ideal for entertaining guests and accommodating various food items simultaneously.

Large Gas Grills

For the ultimate grilling experience and versatility, consider large gas grills. These grills provide ample cooking area and multiple burners, allowing you to grill a wide range of foods all at once. Whether you’re searing steaks, smoking ribs, or roasting a whole chicken, large gas grills offer the space and power to explore various grilling techniques.

Extra-Large Gas Grills

If you frequently host large gatherings or events, an extra-large gas grill may be the perfect choice for you. These massive grills offer extensive cooking surface area, multiple burners, and advanced features to ensure you can cater to a crowd. With an extra-large gas grill, you’ll have the capacity and capabilities needed to impress your guests with mouthwatering grilled creations.

Consider the size of your outdoor space, your grilling needs, and the number of people you’ll typically be cooking for when deciding on the right grill size for you. Finding the perfect balance between size and functionality will ensure that you can enjoy the grilling experience to the fullest.

Choose Your Class

Gas grills come in various classes, each offering distinct qualities and features. Understanding the different classes will help you choose the right grill that fits your needs and preferences.

Luxury Gas Grills

Luxury gas grills are designed for those who seek the utmost quality and performance in their grilling experience. These grills are crafted with premium materials, such as stainless steel, and feature sophisticated designs. Luxury grills are equipped with advanced features like temperature control, multiple burners, and precise heat distribution. With wide temperature ranges, they can handle various cooking techniques, making them ideal for serious grill enthusiasts.

Premium Gas Grills

Premium gas grills offer exceptional durability and versatility. Built with commercial-grade stainless steel, these grills are engineered to withstand heavy use and harsh outdoor conditions. They often provide additional customization options, such as interchangeable cooking surfaces or add-on accessories, allowing you to tailor the grill to your specific cooking needs. Premium grills deliver consistent heat distribution and reliable performance, making them a popular choice among avid grillers.

Practical Gas Grills

If you’re looking for a grill that strikes a balance between price and quality, practical gas grills are a great option. These grills offer decent quality materials and cooking versatility at a wallet-friendly price. While they may not have all the bells and whistles of luxury or premium grills, practical gas grills still deliver reliable performance for everyday grilling needs. They are an excellent choice for budget-conscious grill enthusiasts who value functionality and affordability.

Entry-Level Gas Grills

Entry-level gas grills are perfect for beginners or casual grillers who want to dip their toes in the world of outdoor cooking. These grills offer basic designs and lasting materials, providing an affordable option to get started. While they may lack some advanced features found in higher-end models, entry-level gas grills still offer the ability to grill delicious meals for small gatherings or family cookouts. They are an accessible entry point for individuals looking to explore the joys of grilling without breaking the bank.

When choosing your gas grill, consider your budget, cooking needs, and desired features. Whether you opt for luxury, premium, practical, or entry-level, there is a gas grill that will cater to your grilling aspirations.

Consider The Way You Like to Cook

When choosing a gas grill, it’s essential to consider your preferred grilling style. Different grilling techniques require specific features and accessories to enhance your cooking experience. Whether you enjoy high-heat searing, low-and-slow smoking, or being an outdoor entertainer, there is a gas grill that suits your needs.

1. All-Infrared Grill

If you love high-temperature cooking and crave those professional steakhouse-level sear marks, an all-infrared grill is perfect for you. These grills utilize infrared technology, which provides intense, direct heat and helps to lock in the flavors and juices of your meat.

2. Low-and-Slow Smoking

For those who enjoy the art of low-and-slow smoking, a gas grill with charcoal tray accessories or a gas/charcoal combo grill can add a smoky flavor to your dishes. These grills allow you to use charcoal alongside gas, giving you the best of both worlds for slow-cooked, flavorful meats.

3. Outdoor Entertainer

If you love hosting outdoor gatherings and want to create a visually appealing cooking experience, consider gas grills with LED backlit control knobs or internal stadium lighting. These features not only add a touch of elegance but also provide functional lighting for nighttime grilling, ensuring you can entertain your guests in style.

4. Dependable Grill

For grillers who prioritize reliability and consistent results, look for simple and effective gas grills. These grills are designed with durability in mind, using high-quality materials and effective heat distribution systems. They’re dependable workhorses that deliver delicious meals every time.

5. Grill Accessories

Enhance your grilling experience with the right accessories. Grill racks, pizza accessories, and grill thermometers are some examples of essential tools that can take your grilling to the next level. These accessories provide additional cooking options and ensure precise temperature control for perfect results.

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Choose a gas grill that aligns with your cooking preferences and style. Whether you’re an avid griller who loves experimenting with different techniques or someone who simply wants a reliable grill for everyday cooking, there is a perfect grill out there for you.

Best Overall – Weber Spirit E-210 LP Gas Grill

The Weber Spirit E-210 LP Gas Grill is the top choice for those seeking a small gas grill that delivers exceptional performance and versatility. With a generous cooking area of 450 square inches, this grill provides ample space for grilling all your favorite foods. Whether you’re cooking for a small family or hosting a gathering, the Weber Spirit E-210 has you covered.

This propane grill features stainless steel burners that ensure even heat distribution for perfect results every time. The porcelain-enameled grates retain heat and create beautiful sear marks on your food. The foldable side trays offer added convenience and allow for easy storage when the grill is not in use.

One of the standout features of the Weber Spirit E-210 is its open cart design, which provides ample storage space for your propane tank. This eliminates the need for a separate storage unit, keeping everything neatly organized in one place.

Whether you have a small patio or balcony, the Weber Spirit E-210 is the perfect fit. Its compact design allows for easy placement in limited outdoor spaces, without compromising on cooking power and performance. Experience the reliability and versatility of the Weber Spirit E-210 LP Gas Grill, and elevate your grilling game to new heights.

Runner-up – Char-Broil Performance 300 2-Burner Cabinet Liquid Propane Gas Grill

The Char-Broil Performance 300 is a compact propane gas grill that offers a 300 square inch cooking surface. It features stainless steel grates, a warming shelf, and foldable side trays. It is a great option for those looking for a small gas grill with all the necessary features.

Whether you’re cooking burgers for a family barbecue or grilling up steakhouse-quality meals, the Char-Broil Performance 300 is designed to deliver consistent and delicious results. With its compact size, this grill is perfect for those with limited outdoor space, such as small patios or balconies.

The Char-Broil Performance 300 is built with durability in mind, featuring stainless steel grates that are easy to clean and resistant to rust. The foldable side trays provide convenient space for food prep or holding utensils, while the warming shelf keeps food warm until it’s ready to be served.

With its compact size and user-friendly design, the Char-Broil Performance 300 is a fantastic choice for those who want a high-quality small gas grill that doesn’t compromise on performance. Whether you’re a beginner griller or a seasoned BBQ enthusiast, this grill offers the features and functionality to enhance your outdoor cooking experience.

Experience the convenience and versatility of the Char-Broil Performance 300. Get yours today and start grilling delicious meals for family and friends!

Best Tabletop Portable Gas Grill – Weber Q1000 Liquid Propane Grill

When it comes to portable grilling, the Weber Q1000 is a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts. This tabletop gas grill is compact yet powerful, offering 189 square inches of cooking area. Its small size makes it perfect for camping trips, picnics, tailgating, or simply grilling on a small balcony or patio.

The Weber Q1000 features a stainless steel burner that provides consistent and even heat distribution. This ensures that your food cooks evenly, resulting in delicious and perfectly grilled meals every time. The porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates retain heat well and create beautiful sear marks on your food.

One of the key advantages of the Weber Q1000 is its portability. It has a sturdy and compact design, allowing you to easily transport it wherever you go. Whether you’re heading to the beach, going on a road trip, or simply want to grill in your backyard, this portable gas grill has got you covered.

Despite its small size, the Weber Q1000 doesn’t compromise on performance. Its burner can reach high temperatures quickly, allowing you to sear steaks or burgers to perfection. The easy-start electronic ignition ensures hassle-free lighting, so you can start grilling in no time.

With its convenient size and impressive grilling capabilities, the Weber Q1000 is a reliable and versatile tabletop gas grill. Its portable nature, combined with its efficient cooking performance, makes it a favorite among grilling enthusiasts who love to grill on the go.

Best Small Infrared Gas Grill – Char-Broil Performance TRU Infrared 300 2-Burner Gas Grill

The Char-Broil Performance TRU Infrared 300 is an exceptional small gas grill that brings the power of infrared technology to your outdoor cooking experience. This innovative grill utilizes infrared heat to ensure even cooking and reduce flare-ups, giving you perfectly grilled food every time.

With its compact size and 300 square inch cooking surface, the Char-Broil Performance TRU Infrared 300 is the perfect choice for small outdoor spaces, such as patios, balconies, or decks. It offers ample cooking space for your favorite dishes, whether it’s burgers, steaks, chicken, or vegetables.

Equipped with stainless steel grates, the Char-Broil Performance TRU Infrared 300 ensures optimal heat distribution and retains the natural juices of your food for enhanced flavor. The enclosed storage cabinet provides convenient space to store your grilling essentials, such as tools and accessories, keeping everything organized and within reach.

Whether you’re a grilling enthusiast or a casual cook, the Char-Broil Performance TRU Infrared 300 is a must-have for anyone who enjoys high-heat searing and wants a small gas grill with infrared capabilities. Take your outdoor cooking to the next level with this impressive infrared gas grill.

BBQ Pit Master

Ryan Conlon is a BBQ enthusiast and inspired chef on a journey through the smoky, savory world of outdoor cooking. Hailing from the heart of the Midwest, Ryan’s passion for grilling ignited during his early years, where family gatherings often revolved around the sizzle of the grill and the aroma of seasoned meats.