Best Tabletop Grills 2023 For Camping, BBQ
Tabletop grills are small, portable grills, but they have the same features as a larger grill. They are ideal for someone who doesn’t have much space for a traditional barbecue or likes to barbecue on the go. By investing in the best tabletop grill, you can enjoy barbecue in the park, campsite, or tailgate party. The best tabletop electric grill can even be used indoors, so tabletop grills help you enjoy grilling both indoors and outdoors.
The best tabletop grill for you depends on your needs and preferences. Our buying guide and these tabletop grill reviews will help you choose the best tabletop grill for yourself.
At A Glance Tabletop Grills 2023
Top 6 Best Tabletop Grill Reviews 2023
1. Best Overall: Weber Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill
Key Features
- Total cooking area of 280 Square Inches
- Single stainless-steel burner
- 12,000 BTU
- Porcelain-enameled, cast-iron cooking grates
- Built-in lid thermometer
- Infinite control burner valve
- Glass-reinforced nylon frame
The Weber Q2200 is the top of the line model from Weber, and it is one that stands out as the best tabletop grill. It comes with a single stainless-steel burner that circles the bottom of the grill. The burner can produce 12,000 BTU of heat, and it can be powered by standard 16.4 or 14.1 oz liquid propane disposable cylinders.
This grill features an electric ignition and an analog dial that allows you to control gas flow, which gives you variable heat control. It has a generous cooking surface of 280 square inches which is comprised of a cast iron grate that divide into sections. This grill also has a thermometer built into the lid, which is nice.
The lid and body are made of cast aluminum, which provides excellent heat retention and is also highly rust-resistant. It weighs around 42 pounds, which is large considering it is a tabletop grill, but it is manageable. The grill is stable as well, with its solid Nylon legs. The grill also offers side tables to hold your prep items which you can fold under the grill for portability and storage. There is also a removable catch pan that makes your cleaning easy.
[pros_cons pros_text=”
- Excellent build quality
- Large cooking space for a tabletop grill
- Built-in thermometer on the lid
- Side tables for extra prep space
- Stable base
” cons_text=”
- Only one burner
- A bit on the heavy side
” /]
Verdict: This model from Weber comes with a good build quality along with some excellent features, such as a built-in lid thermometer. It is a bit large and heavy model, but if you are looking for a reliable tabletop grill, this one would be a great choice. That is why it is our top pick for the best tabletop grill.
2. Runner-Up: Giantex OP3243 Propane Tabletop Gas Grill
Key Features
The Giantex Propane tabletop gas grill comes with two burners that combine to generate up to 20,000 BTU. The two burners are independently controllable, and each one offers 10,000 BTU each. Starting the burners are also made easy with electronic ignition. All this enables you to reach high heat quickly and offers the ability to create two different heat zones.
The grill has a generous 266 square inches of cooking space, and the two independent burners combine to make it versatile. It is made from 430 stainless steel and also has a removable drip tray to make clean up easy after grilling. Despite its build material and size, the grill weighs about 26 lbs., making it a lightweight option.
The grill features fold-up legs and has locking latches for the lid. This makes it easy to store and transport. There is also a built-in thermometer on the lid that allows you to monitor grill temperature. Another notable feature is the useful 40 inches length gas hose, which is longer than many others in the tabletop category. This gives you more versatility in terms of placement options of the grill and its gas supply.
[pros_cons pros_text=”
- Stainless steel construction
- Two independently controllable burners
- 266 square inches of cooking area
- Easy cleaning with removable drip tray
- Lockable lid for easy transportation
” cons_text=”
- The stainless-steel could be thicker
” /]
Verdict: With this model, you get the experience of cooking in an authentic full-sized grill in a tabletop grill. It is one of the best tabletop propane grill on the list.
3. Best Portable: CUISINART CGG-180T Portable Tabletop Propane Gas Grill
Key Features
- Stainless-steel lid and box
- 145 square inches of cooking area
- Single burner generates 5,500
- Porcelain-enamel coated cooking grate
- Aluminum, telescopic legs
- Gas control knob with a built-in ignition
- Drip tray
If you are looking for a grill that you can transport, carry and set up easily, then this one might be the ideal choice for you. It’s really worth your consideration if small size and portability are something you want.
This grill comes with foldable legs and a lockable lid. When folded and the lid is locked, it becomes like a suitcase with a large carry handle, which makes it easier to carry. Plus, it weighs just 13.5 lbs.
The dimension of this grill is 18.6 x 17.6 x 11.8inches, which offers 145 square inches of cooking area. So, it is only suitable to feed a small number of people, like 4 people. The burner is made from stainless steel and can provide 5,500 BTUs. Although it’s not the most powerful option, it is good enough to get the job done.
The porcelain-enameled grate provides even heating, and it features a twist start ignition for easy lighting. Aluminum legs are wide and provide stability and keep the center of gravity low. The legs are telescopic, so they allow you to increase the unit to about waist height without having to use any table if needed.
[pros_cons pros_text=”
- Lightweight and portable
- The legs fold up, and the lid locks shut
- It becomes like a briefcase when folded
- A large handle makes it easy to carry
- It can be set on a table
” cons_text=”
- Rather small in size
- No temperature gauge
” /]
Verdict: If you have a small space or want something to take to picnic, camp, etc., then this should be in your consideration. It is one of the most convenient grills for travel.
4. Weber 121020 Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill
Key Features
- Porcelain-enameled steel box and lid
- Plated steel grate and legs
- Aluminum dampers for airflow and heat control
- Nylon handle with heat deflector
- Pivoting, locking plated-steel legs
If you want the freedom to grill anywhere, you need a model that is lightweight, reliable, and sturdy. Our next unit of the best tabletop grill is just that. And not only these things, but this grill also provides an authentic taste of charcoal grilling.
This compact, ‘Go-Anywhere’ grill from Weber has everything you would want to have in a grab-and-go outdoor convenient cooking package. This is a folding grill. You can lock the lid by swiveling the plated steel legs up around the lid. This also makes it easy to store and transport this grill.
And while in use, the legs swivel down under the grill and latch together to form a stable base. There is a glass-reinforced nylon handle with a shield on top of the grill, making it easy to carry and remove the lid without getting burned.
This lightweight grill weighs only 15 lbs, making it easy to carry around. It measures 12.2” L x 21” W x 14.5” H, and offers 160 square inches of cooking space that comprise a plated steel grate. The space is good enough to cook 8 pieces of chicken or 4 steaks.
Inside and out of the grill is porcelain enamel coated to reflect heat back into the grill and offer good rust protection. It functions like a large charcoal grill with two 3-hole vents, one per side on the lid, and with two lower vents, one per side. The airflow, oxygen levels, and heat inside the grill are controlled by these vents. You can also close all vents to smother and put out unused coals and have them ready for the next time.
You don’t get any ash pan with this grill, but it is light and small enough that you can turn it upside down to empty ashes and coals. As you have guessed from its size, it is not designed to feed a large crowd, but it can handle the meal for 2 to 3 people.
[pros_cons pros_text=”
- It comes with many quality features
- Excellent build
- Top and bottom dampers for excellent temperature control
- Folds compact for easy transport and storage
” cons_text=”
- No thermometer on the lid
- No ash pan
” /]
Verdict: It is a small and lightweight grill. This “Go Anywhere” convenient model allows you to take it anywhere and enjoy grilling. It is our top pick as the best tabletop charcoal grill.
5. Char-Griller E22424 Table Top Charcoal Grill
Key Features
- Heavy-duty steel body
- Cast iron grate
- 250 square inches of cooking
- Wooden handle
- Charcoal drawer
- Two air vents for temperature control
If you want the best tabletop charcoal grill that very traditional, then the Char-Griller E22424 Table Top just might what you are looking for. It is a smaller-sized version of horizontal barrel grills. This grill is a standalone model, but you can attach it to the side of full-sized Char-Griller BBQs and use it as a firebox, which creates an offset smoker. However, you can’t remove it after you attach it because you will have to create holes during the attachment process.
This grill is made from heavy-duty steel and weighs 42 lbs. It is fueled by charcoal and comes with a cast iron cooking grate. It offers 250 square inches of cooking space, which is more than many other options on this list. There are two dampers to control internal temperatures and airflow.
Sturdy feet ensure stability while in use, and there is a slide-out drawer that allows easy access to either top up or stirs the charcoal. This also makes it easy to access the ashes for easy cleanup. Accessing the food is also easy with a stay-cool handle on the lid.
[pros_cons pros_text=”
- Traditional appearance
- Seriously solid build
- Slide-out ash drawer for easy cleaning
- A stay-cool handle on the lid
” cons_text=”
- A bit on the heavy side
” /]
Verdict: This appearance of this grill screams out, “I mean business.” It is a well-built, purposeful-looking grill, making it one of the best tabletop charcoal grill.
6. Masterbuilt SH19030819 Propane Tabletop Grill
Key Features
- Single U-shaped burner
- 205 square inches of cooking area
- 100 square inches of warming rack
- Removable stainless-steel drip tray
- Locking lid
- Folding stainless steel legs
- Built-in lid thermometer
This is one of the best tabletop gas grill in the list with many features that makes it a suitable grill to use in camping, on the go, or tailgating. It is made from long-lasting stainless steel that is also rust-resistance and durable. It also features folding legs, a lockable lid, and a large carry handle, so you can say it was designed with portability and outdoor in mind.
It comes with a single U-shaped stainless-steel burner. This burner can provide 10,000 BTUs of heat, and it covers 205 square inches of primary cooking area, which is enough to cook up to 8 burgers or 4 steaks. Considering its small size, this is a quite powerful burner. However, having only one burner means you can’t create different heat zones, but that is not an issue as long as you know this going in.
You are also getting a 100 square inches of warming rack with this grill. So, you can cook things on the main grate and, in the meantime slowing warm rolls or slowly cook vegetables on a lower heat. Other standout features are an easy access removable stainless-steel drip tray that collects drippings and grease from your food, as well as a lid thermometer that tells you the temperature you are cooking at.
[pros_cons pros_text=”
- Durable and rust-resistant stainless-steel build
- Good sized primary cooking area
- A warming rack
- Folding legs
- Locking lid
- Easy to transport with large front handle
” cons_text=”
- Single burner means it is not possible to create different heat zones
” /]
Verdict: This stainless-steel made grill looks professional, clean, and classy. It is a nice sized, well-built, well-featured, easy to use grill that will enable you to cook for a small family. Plus, its design makes it a portable option.
What is a Tabletop Grill and Who Should Have One?
Tabletop grills are a small, portable variety of big grill models. They literally bring the usefulness and versatility of a regular-size grill to your table. These compact grills come elevated at a safe distance from the table it stands on. The rest is as same as a regular version grill. They have a heat source, a cooking surface, and they also differ in the type of fuel they burn, such as liquid propane or charcoal.
Depending on the grill model, the size and shape of the grate also differ. A sure thing that will not differ in a tabletop grill is that they all have some kind of lid or cover. The lid helps to retain heat, which saves time and fuel. The food also cooks quickly because of the good heat retention.
Propane vs. Charcoal Tabletop Grills
Choosing between charcoal and liquid propane as the main fuel source for a tabletop grill is a bit tricky. Both fuel types offer their advantages and disadvantages.
Learning to use liquid propane as fuel is easy, but charcoal needs some getting used to. Regulating heat on propane grills is also simple, while it takes a bit complicated process to control the heat in charcoal grills. And when it comes to refueling the grill, you just have to change the propane tank that is also rarely, but with a charcoal grill, you may have to refuel once or twice.
When it comes to taste, everyone knows which fuel is the winner. You can also get different aftertastes from different wood origins and their mixtures. However, liquid propane grills can also provide similar tastes by adding just a bit of wood into the fire. Although this is a hard process, it is not impossible. The charcoal grill can also generate a lot of heat, while a propane grill has limited capability.
All in all, a propane grill is a convenient option, but if you are looking for powerful heat generation and taste, then the charcoal grill is the way to go.
What to Cook on a Tabletop Grill
You can use a tabletop grill for cooking all your favorite dishes outdoor, including burgers and steaks and many more adventurous recipes. No matter what you want to cook, chances are there is a grilled version of that dish you can cook on your new tabletop grill.
Tabletop Grill Buying Guide
Here are some things that you should consider when shopping for the best tabletop grill.
Fuel Type
Propane or charcoal, which one do you want your fuel source to be? Both have their pros and cons. Just think about which would be the more sensible option for you.
If you plan on going mobile, both of the fuel types require you to carry fuel with you. The choice totally depends on you. Just make sure you go with the one that is more suitable for your situation.
Folding Legs
Folding legs are not the most important feature of a tabletop grill, but they make packing your grill a lot easier when you go to picnic, camping, or tailgating. If you are short on space, those few extra inches will seem like a big difference.
Even if the legs don’t fold, make sure they provide sufficient stability and clearance to keep the hot exterior of the grill away from the surface.
Weight
If you want to take your tabletop grill on the road, trail, or boat, then the weight of the grill should be in your consideration. If you are looking for something portable, you don’t want to end up with something that is too heavy for you to carry comfortably. And if you plan on having it at home, also consider the surface you are going to keep it. Because if you are getting a grill that weighs 50-pounds, a shaky old table won’t be able to hold it.
Carrying Handles
A good tabletop grill should come with a handle or handle as this makes it easy to carry the grill. For short moves, a pair of small handles will suffice. For great portability, you should look for one with a top handle or briefcase, or lunchbox style grill. Also, make sure the handles are attached solidly.
Portability
Portability is one of the main reasons why people prefer tabletop grills. This isn’t that important if you are going to use the grill permanently in one place. But if you are going to barbecue on the go, then you should get a grill that’s weight is comfortable enough for you to carry. It should also be equipped with foldable legs so that you can set it up anywhere.
Material
Build material of the grill, and the grates also play an important role in your decision-making. The two main materials that are used to make tabletop grills are steel and cast iron. Steel is a sturdy material, and it is resistant to damages. However, its heat retention is not the best.
A grill grate made of stainless steel is good if you are not concerned about seasoning it. Plus, cleaning the grate is easier.
On the other hand, many traditional grill masters go with cast iron over steel as this material is known for providing a special effect on the grilled food. However, this material requires special treatment before and after use.
Additional Features and Accessories
As with any cooking appliance, having additional features and accessories can help you do better cooking. The additional things you can look for in a tabletop grill are – additional side surfaces, analog thermometer, Larger ash disposal trays, and lid lock.
Conclusion
The market is filled with tabletop grills. These small, portable cooking appliances provide as good grilling as a traditional grill. Your choice should depend on what you want to do with your tabletop grill. We hope you will find the best tabletop grill from our tabletop grill reviews. And if you find any difficulties choosing, take help from our buying guide. Happy shopping!
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