If you love summer cookouts and BBQs, investing in a quality portable grill is a must. Not only can you use them at home, especially if you don't have room for the complete setup, but you can also take them with you on all your summer adventures. With road trips, beach days, camping, picnics at the park [1], tailgating, and more, you can enjoy your favorite grilled meats and veggies [2] wherever you are with these portable grills. If you're wondering which one to invest in, we've got you covered. We rounded up the best portable grills you can use all year round.
Depending on your lifestyle, you'll need to decide between three grill options: electric, charcoal, and gas. Electric portable grills are great for those who want something low maintenance that will produce less smoke; however, you will need access to an outlet or an electric generator. Gas grills are powerful and can smoke and sear meats to your heart's desire, but you'll need a propane tank or two on hand with you. Charcoal grills deliver that depth and smokiness that's perfect for BBQ season, but expect to deal with cleanup afterward.
If you're in the market for a new portable grill for all your summertime outdoor entertaining [3], check out our top picks ahead. We even found a multifunctional one that can grill, smoke, and even air fry.
A Propane Gas Grill With a Stand
Cuisinart Petit Gourmet Gas Grill With VersaStand [5] ($145, originally $200)
The Cuisinart Petit Gourmet Gas Grill is compact to take anywhere, as it only weighs 17 pounds. It also folds into a briefcase-style carrying case. The VersaStand is removable, so you can use this grill on tabletops or with the stand. The grill uses propane gas and has a twist-to-start electric ignition. It can hold food for four to six people at one time.
A Multifunctional Electric Outdoor Grill
Ninja Woodfire 7-in-1 Outdoor Grill [6] ($370)
Ninja's Woodfire 7-in-1 Outdoor Grill lets you grill, smoke, and even air fry outdoors, and with these capabilitie, you'll also be able to bake, roast, broil, and dehydrate. The small but mighty grill is apartment-friendly, too, since it doesn't require a gas tank or charcoal. Plus, you'll be able to grill multiple things at a time, so you can feed your guests without making them wait too long. The best part? This electric grill imparts a woodfire flavor for that authentic BBQ experience; just add your go-to wood pellets.
A Propane Grill With 3 Adjustable Burners
Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill [7] ($290, originally $320)
Coleman's RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill has wheels and folds into a carry-on suitcase-style for easy transport. It comes with two side tables so you can keep your prep materials nearby. It has three adjustable burners.
A Lightweight Tabletop Propane Gas Grill
Nomadiq Portable Propane Gas Grill [8] ($300, originally $400)
Only weighing 12 pounds, the Nomadiq Portable Propane Gas Grill is a tabletop grill that has two drip trays and two burners. It has ceramic nonstick grates for easy cooking. It folds into itself and becomes handheld for easy transport.
A Portable Charcoal Grill
Cuisinart CCG190RB Portable Charcoal Grill [9] ($28, originally $40)
Cuisinart's Portable Charcoal Grill is the number one bestselling charcoal grill on Amazon. The portable grill has a 150-square-inch chrome-plated cooking rack and three secure lid locks for convenient and safe transport. It has a dual venting system, giving you the ultimate charcoal management and temperature control. It even has an ash catcher for mess-free summer fun.
A Standup Propane Grill With Wheels
Coleman Gas Grill RoadTrip 225 Standup Grill [10] ($225, originally $275)
The Coleman Gas Grill RoadTrip 225 Standup Grill has two adjustable burners and a push ignition for matchless lighting. It's easy to transport because the legs and wheels fold into the grill and can easily fit inside trunks. You can even change the cast-iron grates with griddles or stove grates.
A Lightweight Charcoal Grill
Weber 14" 10020 Portable Grill [11] ($46)
The Weber 10020 Portable Grill is a charcoal porcelain-coated grill that has an ash catcher. The plated steel cooking grate has enough cooking space to feed a small group at a time. It's a little under 10 pounds, so you can take this with you wherever you go, from hiking to the beach.
A Portable Electric Grill
Weber Q1400 Electric Grill Model 52020001 [12] ($329)
Weber's Q1400 Electric Grill has porcelain-coated enamel with cast-iron grates. With this electric grill, you'll need a power outlet to plug it into, but it does come with a six-foot grounded cord. You can precisely control the heat to cook food at its optimal temperature. Plus, with its aluminum liner, it's able to retain heat efficiently. Although it looks tiny, it packs a powerful punch for all your grilling needs.
A Portable Propane Grill With Folding Side Tables
Weber Q 1200 LP Propane Gas Grill [13] ($260)
The Weber Q 1200 LP Propane Gas Grill comes in bold colors, like bright green and black.
It has porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates and a built-in lid thermometer, so you can grill and sear to perfection. With a removable catch pan and folding side tables, this portable grill provides all the convenience you'll need for cooking and serving at your BBQ.
A Tabletop Gas Grill
Char-Broil Deluxe Tabletop Gas Grill [14] ($90)
The Char-Broil Deluxe Tabletop Gas Grill includes a great stainless-steel design with powder-coated finish and heat-resistant handle for easy opening and closing. This grill has a grease tray as well, making it easier than ever to collect debris. The tabletop gas grill can easily connect to a propane gas tank wherever you go. It's great for parks, balconies, and the beach.