7 Best Small Gas Grills of 2026

This compact powerhouse delivers an impressive 11,000 BTUs from its stainless steel burner, making it one of the most capable small grills in its class. With 360 sq in of cooking space, it outperforms many rivals in terms of surface area, letting you cook burgers, veggies, and even chicken thighs simultaneously without overcrowding. The locking lid and foldable legs make it a breeze to transport and store, solving the common pain point of clunky setup for weekend picnics or tight patio storage.

In real-world testing, the grill heats up quickly—reaching searing temperatures in under five minutes—thanks to its porcelain steel firebox and high-output burner. It maintains consistent heat across the grilling surface, though wind can cause minor fluctuations without a windbreak. It excels on tabletops at campsites or balconies, but the single burner means no temperature zoning, limiting versatility when cooking different foods at once. Grease management is simple with the removable tray, though frequent use demands regular emptying to avoid flare-ups.

Compared to the Basicfire 2-burner model, this Megamaster trades dual-zone control for broader cooking space and slightly better heat retention. It’s ideal for solo grilling enthusiasts or couples who want maximum cooking area without bulk. While it lacks side shelves or wheels, its stability and durability stand out in the compact category. For those prioritizing cooking real estate over multi-zone control, this grill offers more usable space than most at a similar size and price point.

The Bestfire 2-burner tabletop grill strikes a rare balance between power and portability, dishing out 20,000 BTUs across two stainless steel burners for true dual-zone grilling. This means you can sear steaks on one side and gently cook veggies on the other, a game-changer for small-space cooks who still want restaurant-style control. The built-in thermometer and push-button ignition make it feel more like a full-sized grill than a portable unit, solving the frustration of guesswork grilling.

During testing, the even heat distribution stood out—no cold spots, even after 20 minutes of continuous use. The 22″ x 20″ footprint fits easily on picnic tables or RV stands, and the stainless steel construction shrugs off rust and grease. It handles wind better than single-burner models thanks to its enclosed design, though the lack of side shelves means you’ll need a separate prep surface. Cleanup is a snap with the removable grease tray, and the legs snap on in seconds with no tools.

Against the Electactic 2-burner, the Bestfire wins on ease of transport and faster ignition, though it lacks wheels and a warming rack. It’s the best pick for campers, tailgaters, or apartment dwellers who want serious grilling power without the footprint. With superior temperature control and durability, it delivers more cooking intelligence than its price suggests—outperforming bulkier models in precision and convenience.

The Electactic 2-burner grill earns its ‘Best Overall’ title with a thoughtful blend of portability, performance, and smart design. Pumping out 20,000 BTUs and featuring independent burner controls, it allows true temperature zoning—perfect for cooking delicate fish alongside sizzling sausages. The 325 sq in total cooking area, including a warming rack, gives you room to feed a small crowd, while the movable wheels and steady feet make it easy to reposition on decks or uneven lawns.

In real use, the porcelain-enamel grates prevent sticking and distribute heat evenly, though they require post-grill wiping to maintain longevity. The built-in stainless steel thermometer delivers accurate readings, eliminating guesswork during long cooks. It heats up fast and maintains steady temps, even in mild wind, thanks to its enclosed base and burner design. The dedicated propane tank storage keeps everything secure and safe, a rare and welcome touch in this category.

When stacked against the Bestfire, it trades slightly slower setup for greater versatility and mobility. It’s ideal for families or frequent entertainers who want a portable yet feature-rich option. With side shelves, wheels, and a warming rack, it bridges the gap between tabletop and full-sized grills—offering more functionality than the Bestfire at a modest increase in size and cost.

The Cuisinart Petite Gourmet is a masterclass in ultra-portability without sacrificing essentials, making it the top choice for backpackers, minimalist campers, and urban balcony dwellers. With a 5,500 BTU burner and 150 sq in cooking surface, it’s not the most powerful, but it’s more than capable of grilling eight burgers or a full chicken. The folding legs and briefcase-style carry handle let it collapse into a compact unit that fits in car trunks or closet corners—perfect for those who value quick setup and space-saving storage.

In testing, the twist-to-start ignition proved reliable, though it sometimes required a second click in damp conditions. The porcelain-enameled grates resist sticking and are dishwasher-safe, a rare perk that simplifies cleanup after messy marinades. It heats moderately fast, best suited for quick meals like burgers or grilled sandwiches, but struggles with high-heat searing. The compact size limits batch cooking, but for light-duty grilling on the go, it’s hard to beat.

Compared to the GasOne GPT-17B, it offers better build quality and easier cleaning, though with less raw power. It’s the go-to for frequent travelers or storage-limited users who prioritize hassle-free transport and cleanup. While it can’t match the output of 10,000+ BTU grills, its tool-free setup and dishwasher-safe grates make it the most convenient small grill for low-maintenance outdoor cooking.

The GasOne GPT-17B is the lightest and most budget-friendly entry that still delivers solid performance, making it ideal for first-time buyers or occasional grillers. Its user-friendly temperature knob offers precise control, a standout in a category where many grills max out at on/off heat. The heat-resistant handles make it safe to move even when warm, and the non-stick porcelain grate ensures food releases cleanly—no scraping nightmares.

Real-world use reveals it heats up quickly for its size, though it peaks at lower temperatures compared to 10,000+ BTU models. It’s excellent for grilling burgers, hot dogs, or veggies at picnics or RV trips, but not ideal for thick steaks needing a hard sear. The compact design fits on any table, and cleanup is minimal thanks to the smooth cooking surface. However, it lacks a lid lock, making transport of a warm grill a bit risky.

Against the Nexgrill 1-burner, the GasOne wins on weight and ease of handling, though it sacrifices searing power and lid stability. It’s best for light-duty, on-the-go grilling where simplicity and affordability matter most. With smooth temperature control and a no-fuss build, it outshines pricier models in usability for casual cooks.

The Nexgrill 1-burner is the budget king that doesn’t skimp on durability, thanks to its cast aluminum frame and cast iron grate—a rare combo at this price. The 10,000 BTU burner delivers strong, consistent heat, and the Piezo ignition sparks reliably with every turn, eliminating the need for lighters. With 183 sq in of cooking space, it offers more room than the Cuisinart Petite but less than the Megamaster, striking a middle ground for small-group grilling.

In testing, the cast iron grate held heat exceptionally well, creating deep sear marks on steaks and resisting warping. The aluminum body stays cool to the touch on the outside, improving safety during use. Wind can cool the edges slightly, but the lid helps trap heat effectively. The removable grease tray simplifies cleanup, though it fills quickly during fatty meat grilling.

Compared to the Megamaster, it offers better heat retention and sturdier grilling surface, though with less cooking area. It’s perfect for budget-conscious buyers who still want solid performance and long-term durability. With rust-resistant materials and reliable ignition, it delivers more value per dollar than most—outlasting cheaper models while delivering a surprisingly premium grilling feel.

The Cuisinart Petite Gourmet with VersaStand redefines convenience by transforming from a tabletop grill to a freestanding unit in seconds, thanks to its telescoping adjustable base. This feature alone makes it the easiest to set up and adapt for different environments—perfect for users who switch between patio tables and ground-level camp setups. With the same 150 sq in cooking surface and 5,500 BTU burner as its sibling model, it delivers consistent, manageable heat for everyday grilling.

Setup takes under 10 minutes with no tools, and the locking lid and carry handle ensure safe transport. The porcelain-enameled grates are again dishwasher-safe, a huge plus for those tired of scrubbing after cookouts. While it doesn’t offer high-BTU power, its twist-to-start ignition is reliable, and the compact folded size makes storage effortless in small apartments or RVs.

Versus the standard Petite Gourmet, this model adds standalone versatility without sacrificing portability. It’s ideal for RV owners, patio grilling newbies, or anyone who hates complex assembly. With effortless conversion and foolproof setup, it offers the most user-friendly experience in the small grill market—making grilling accessible even for complete beginners.