7 Best Small Gas Grills for Balcony 2026

The GasOne GPT-17B delivers surprising power in a compact frame, making it an ideal pick for balcony dwellers craving real flame-grilled flavor without the bulk. With a durable stainless steel burner and porcelain-coated non-stick grates, this grill resists rust and simplifies cleanup—crucial for small-space users who can’t afford messy maintenance. Its user-friendly temperature knob offers precise control, solving the common issue of hotspots that plague budget grills, while the heat-resistant handles ensure safe transport from storage to tabletop.

In real-world use, the grill heats up quickly and maintains consistent temperatures across its improved cooking surface, capable of handling four burgers or a mix of veggies and meats simultaneously. While it runs on standard 1 lb propane cylinders (perfect for portability), the flame output—though adequate—is less intense than higher-BTU models, making searing slightly slower. It performs best on calm days; strong winds can disrupt the flame, a known limitation for open-flame tabletop units. Still, for RV trips, apartment balconies, or picnics, it provides reliable, flavor-forward results without needing permanent setup.

Compared to the Cuisinart Grillster, the GasOne offers larger cooking space and stronger heat, though it lacks the same premium fit and finish. It’s not as feature-rich as 2-burner models like the Bestfire or Electactic, but it strikes a smart balance between simplicity and performance—perfect for beginners or occasional grillers prioritizing value. For under $60, it outperforms many rivals in build quality and usability, making it the best entry point for budget-conscious balcony chefs.

The Megamaster 820-0065C brings serious heat to small spaces with its 11,000 BTU stainless steel burner, making it a standout among 1-burner grills for fast, efficient cooking on patios and balconies. Its 360 sq in cooking area is one of the largest in its class, allowing users to grill for small gatherings without crowding food—ideal for those who want to cook for two or three without compromise. The foldable legs and locking lid enhance on-the-go versatility, turning it into a true companion for camping, tailgating, or compact urban setups.

During testing, the grill reached high temperatures in under five minutes, thanks to its porcelain steel firebox and high-power burner, delivering satisfying sear marks on burgers and sausages. The removable grease tray made cleanup effortless, a major plus for balcony users with limited cleaning space. However, the cooking grates show uneven heat distribution near the edges, leading to slightly undercooked spots if not rotated. It also lacks a built-in thermometer, forcing users to guess internal temps—annoying when grilling thicker cuts.

Against the Nexgrill 1-burner model, the Megamaster offers more BTUs and cooking space, but trades some durability for affordability. It’s heavier than ultra-light options like the Cuisinart Grillster, but more stable on uneven surfaces. For grilling enthusiasts who want maximum cooking real estate and solid heat without breaking the bank, this is the best budget-friendly powerhouse—delivering performance that punches above its price tag.

The Bestfire 2-burner grill redefines what’s possible in portable grilling by packing dual stainless steel burners and 20,000 BTUs into a tabletop design—perfect for balcony chefs who refuse to sacrifice performance for size. Its independent temperature zones let you sear steaks on one side while gently warming veggies on the other, a game-changer for multi-item meals in tight spaces. The push-button ignition and built-in thermometer add premium convenience, eliminating the need for lighters and guesswork.

Real-world testing confirmed rapid heat-up and excellent heat retention, even in light breezes, thanks to the high lid and enclosed burners. The stainless steel grates held up well against flare-ups and cleaned easily after use. With a 22” x 20” footprint, it fits comfortably on most balconies or picnic tables, and the locking lid with handle ensures safe transport. That said, the legs, while sturdy, don’t fold—making storage slightly bulkier than competitors like the Cuisinart Petite Gourmet.

When compared to the Electactic 2-burner, the Bestfire offers similar power and build quality but without side shelves or wheels, trading utility for a sleeker, more compact profile. It’s overkill for solo grilling but ideal for couples or small families wanting restaurant-style results at home or on the road. For those seeking the most capable 2-burner portable, this model delivers premium features without the premium footprint.

The Nexgrill 820-BC002 is a masterclass in lightweight efficiency, built around a rust-resistant cast aluminum frame that keeps weight down without sacrificing durability—perfect for renters or high-rise balcony users who move their grill frequently. Delivering 10,000 BTUs through a single powerful burner, it heats up fast and maintains consistent temperatures for reliable searing and grilling. The cast iron cooking grate is a rare gem at this price, offering superior heat retention and deep sear marks that elevate food flavor.

In practice, the grill performs admirably for small meals—two burgers, four sausages, or a full veggie skewer fit comfortably on the 183 sq in surface. The Piezo ignition works reliably, lighting the flame with a single click, even in cooler weather. The locking lid and removable grease tray make it easy to use and clean, critical for balcony safety and hygiene. However, the lower BTU output compared to the Megamaster means slower recovery after opening the lid, and the smaller cooking area limits batch grilling.

Against the Cuisinart Grillster, the Nexgrill offers more heat and better grates, but weighs slightly more and lacks dishwasher-safe components. It’s not as feature-rich as 2-burner models, but for purists who value flavor and simplicity, it’s a top-tier 1-burner performer. If you want lightweight portability with serious grilling chops, this model beats most rivals in its weight class.

The Cuisinart Grillster earns its “Best Overall” title by blending sleek design, effortless usability, and smart engineering into a featherlight 10-pound package—ideal for urban balconies where space and storage are at a premium. With 8,000 BTUs and a push-button ignition, it fires up instantly and reaches over 600°F, delivering restaurant-grade searing power in a footprint smaller than a laptop. The dishwasher-safe enameled steel grate is a game-changer for cleanup, eliminating scrubbing after every use—a rare win for portable grills.

In real-world testing, the grill proved incredibly fast to deploy—zero assembly, ready in under five minutes, making it perfect for spontaneous weeknight dinners or rooftop hangs. The compact 19” x 11.5” size fits snugly on small tables, and the latching lid ensures safe carrying. However, the 146 sq in cooking area is on the smaller side, limiting it to two burgers or a few chicken pieces at once. It also runs hotter on one side, requiring food rotation for even results.

Compared to the GasOne and Nexgrill, the Cuisinart offers better build quality and easier maintenance, though with less raw power. It doesn’t match 2-burner models in versatility, but for minimalist grilling with maximum convenience, it sets the gold standard. If you want the easiest, cleanest, and most portable grilling experience, this model justifies its premium with flawless execution.

The Cuisinart Petite Gourmet stands out with its innovative VersaStand base, transforming from a tabletop unit to a freestanding grill in seconds—perfect for users who want flexibility between balcony, patio, and ground-level camping use. The 150 sq in porcelain-enameled grate offers generous cooking space, capable of grilling eight burgers or a full rack of chicken, while the foldable design collapses into a compact carry case with a built-in handle, making it one of the most travel-ready grills available.

Despite its modest 5,500 BTU burner, the grill heats up surprisingly well and maintains steady temps for standard grilling tasks. The twist-to-start ignition is reliable, and the lid latch keeps everything secure during transport. However, the low BTU output means longer preheat times and weaker searing, so steak lovers may be disappointed. The grates are dishwasher-safe, a big plus, but the small flame can struggle in windy conditions.

Next to the Bestfire 2-burner, the Petite Gourmet trades power for unmatched portability and adaptability. It’s not built for high-heat grilling, but for campers, RVers, or apartment dwellers who value versatility and easy storage, it’s hard to beat. For those who need a single grill that does double duty, this model offers unique functionality no other portable matches.

The Electactic 2-burner grill is a mid-range powerhouse that brings full-featured grilling to portable design, offering 20,000 BTUs, independent burners, and a built-in thermometer—features typically found in larger, pricier models. The 325 sq in total cooking area (232 primary + 120 warming) lets you grill and keep food warm simultaneously, ideal for entertaining on patios or large balconies. Two movable wheels and side shelves add serious convenience, turning it into a semi-permanent outdoor kitchen centerpiece without the bulk.

In testing, the dual control knobs allowed precise heat management, and the stainless steel thermometer ensured accurate monitoring—no guesswork when cooking chicken or fish. The porcelain-enamel grates resisted sticking and cleaned easily with the removable grease tray and cup. However, the grill’s larger footprint (36” x 20”) makes it less suitable for tiny balconies, and the wheels, while helpful, reduce stability on soft surfaces. Wind can also affect flame consistency, though less than open-frame models.

Compared to the Bestfire 2-burner, the Electactic offers more cooking space and added utility with shelves and wheels, but at the cost of true portability. It’s heavier and harder to store, but better suited for backyard or garden use where mobility isn’t the priority. For those who want near-full-size grilling in a movable package, this model delivers exceptional value and functionality.