7 Best Small Gas Grills of 2026

This no-nonsense powerhouse delivers 10,000 BTUs of focused heat in a featherlight aluminum shell, making it a standout for grilling purists who value speed, simplicity, and rust resistance. The cast iron cooking grate locks in sear marks like a full-sized grill, while the compact 183 sq in cooking surface is surprisingly efficient for solo cooks or couples. If you’re tired of flimsy, hard-to-light tabletop grills that sputter in the wind, this one solves those frustrations with a reliable piezo ignition and a lid that traps heat like a mini oven.

In real-world use, it fires up in under 60 seconds and reaches grilling temperature quickly—perfect for weeknight burgers or grilled veggies on a balcony. While it handles standard propane bottles via an adapter, its single burner limits zone cooking, so searing steaks while keeping chicken warm isn’t an option. It performs best on calm days; strong gusts can cool the chamber slightly, though the lid helps. The removable grease tray is a small win, making cleanup faster than most in this class.

Compared to the Cuisinart Petite Gourmet, this Nexgrill trades versatility for raw heat and durability, offering nearly 35% more cooking space despite a similar footprint. It’s the ideal pick for urban dwellers, campers, or tailgaters who want dependable performance without assembly drama. While the Bestfire 2-burner model offers more BTUs and dual zones, this one wins on ease of setup and rugged build—a true set-and-forget grill for quick sessions where time and reliability matter most.

Meet the two-zone wonder—a 20,000 BTU twin-burner beast wrapped in stainless steel armor, built for those who refuse to compromise on flavor or flexibility. With independent left-right control, you can sear on one side and slow-cook on the other, a game-changer for backyard dinners or camping feasts. The integrated thermometer keeps heat in check, and the high lid creates true oven-style convection, perfect for thick-cut ribs or roasting vegetables evenly. If you’ve ever struggled with cold spots on a portable grill, this one erases that pain with precision.

We tested it on a windy patio and at a lakeside campsite—its stainless steel body resists corrosion and holds heat impressively, though it benefits from being placed out of direct gusts. The 220 sq in cooking surface fits eight burgers and four veggies side-by-side, and cleanup is a breeze thanks to the removable grease tray and stainless grates. However, the legs require basic assembly, and while sturdy, they don’t fold—adding bulk in storage. It’s heavier than single-burner models, but the dual-burner payoff is worth the trade-off for serious grilling.

Against the Nexgrill, this Bestfire unit dominates in cooking versatility and temperature control, though it’s less grab-and-go due to fixed legs. It’s not as compact as the Cuisinart, but it delivers far more power and precision. For grillers who host small outdoor gatherings or crave restaurant-style results, this is the sweet spot between portability and performance—offering dual-zone mastery that outshines single-burner rivals, even if it demands a bit more space.

This dark-horse champion combines 20,000 BTUs of twin burner fury with a massive 275 sq in cooking zone, all in a 24.7 lb foldable frame—making it the most balanced performer in the portable category. The U-shaped burners deliver even heat distribution, eliminating hot spots, while the wind-proof lid with a built-in thermometer lets you grill with confidence, even on breezy tailgate days. For anyone who’s battled flameouts or uneven cooking on compact grills, this one feels like a revelation—responsive, stable, and built for real grilling.

We grilled everything from delicate fish to thick ribeyes, and the dual burners allowed precise zone control, letting us sear and rest simultaneously. The powder-coated firebox shrugs off rust, and the SUS430 stainless steel grates offer excellent heat retention and easy release. It heats fast, maintains temperature in 90°F heat, and folds flat in seconds—ideal for tossing in an SUV. The only hiccup? The ignition can be finicky in high humidity, but it lights reliably on the second click.

Stacked against the Royal Gourmet GT1001, it offers better wind resistance and a more rugged build, though it has slightly less total cooking area. Compared to the Bestfire, it’s more portable thanks to foldable legs, yet matches its BTU output. It’s the best overall pick for frequent travelers, campers, and tailgaters who demand pro-level control in a packable form—delivering premium features and durability that justify its position above budget models, without veering into overkill.

This camping titan redefines what a portable grill can do with a 285 sq in cooking surface—the largest in its class—and a smart warming rack that turns it into a mini catering station. The U-shaped stainless steel burner pumps out 10,000 BTUs with laser-focused evenness, perfect for feeding a small group without constant rotation. With folding legs and a lockable lid, it’s effortless to load into a car or store in a camper, and the stainless steel grease tray makes post-meal cleanup a one-minute task. If you’ve ever struggled with cramped grills on family trips, this one solves the space crunch decisively.

In testing, it maintained consistent heat across all zones, even when loaded with eight burgers and veggies. The chrome warming rack kept food hot while new batches grilled below—a feature rarely seen at this price. It works flawlessly with 1-lb propane bottles, though larger tanks require an adapter. While it lacks a thermometer, experienced campers won’t miss it. The handle gets warm during long sessions, so gloves are recommended.

Compared to the Megamaster, it offers more cooking area and better materials, though both deliver 10,000 BTUs. Against the Cuisinart, it doubles the cooking space while remaining highly portable. It’s tailor-made for campers, RVers, and outdoor enthusiasts who need maximum utility from a single burner. While the Black Portable model has dual burners, this Royal Gourmet beats it in sheer cooking real estate—making it the top choice when space, not zones, is the priority.

Don’t let the ultra-light tan shell fool you—this 54.99 powerhouse is the lightest and most travel-savvy in the lineup, built for backcountry trips, RV hatches, and minimalist balconies. Weighing under 15 pounds, it’s effortless to carry, and the heat-resistant handles make moving it mid-grill safe and simple. The porcelain-coated non-stick grate ensures no-stick performance even with delicate fish or eggs, a rare win in portable grills. With user-friendly temperature control, you can dial in low-and-slow cooking or crank it for a quick sear—ideal for beginners or those who hate guesswork.

It performed exceptionally on a week-long RV trip, where space and weight were critical. The compact burner delivers consistent heat, though it maxes out around 9,000 BTUs—slightly below its claimed output. It struggles slightly with thick steaks, taking longer to sear, but excels at burgers, veggies, and grilled sandwiches. The cooking surface is generous for its size, but lacks a warming rack or thermometer. Still, for ultra-mobile grilling, it’s hard to beat.

Versus the Cuisinart, it’s lighter and simpler, though it lacks the telescoping base. Compared to the Nexgrill, it’s cheaper and more beginner-friendly, but with less heat intensity. It’s the best lightweight option for hikers, RVers, and small-space cooks who prioritize ease of transport and cleanability. While it doesn’t match the power of dual-burner models, it delivers reliable, fuss-free grilling where portability is king—offering simplicity and durability that punch above its price.

This budget-slaying workhorse delivers 11,000 BTUs and a massive 360 sq in cooking area for under $80—making it the most space-efficient grill per dollar in the lineup. The porcelain steel firebox heats quickly and retains warmth well, while the foldable legs and locking lid ensure it’s ready to roll in seconds. For anyone tired of sacrificing cooking space for portability, this Megamaster flips the script—offering room for 12+ burgers at once, ideal for small gatherings or meal prep. The removable grease tray keeps maintenance simple, and the stainless steel burner resists corrosion better than most in this price range.

In real use, it heats fast and performs reliably for standard grilling tasks—burgers, hot dogs, chicken, and veggies all come out evenly cooked. However, the heat distribution isn’t perfectly even, with slight variance at the edges. It lacks a thermometer, so monitoring temp requires experience. The lid doesn’t seal tightly, so wind can affect performance—best used in sheltered areas. Still, for the price, it’s incredibly capable.

Compared to the Nexgrill, it offers nearly double the cooking space and more BTUs, though with a heavier steel frame. Against the Royal Gourmet, it’s cheaper and larger, but with inferior materials. It’s the best budget-friendly pick for families, dorm dwellers, or first-time grillers who want maximum cooking area without breaking the bank—delivering serious value that outperforms its modest price tag.

This architectural marvel rethinks portability with its telescoping VersaStand base, transforming from a tabletop grill to a freestanding unit in seconds—perfect for patios, decks, or uneven campsite tables. Despite its tiny 150 sq in cooking surface, it’s incredibly space-smart, folding down to under 10 inches tall for backpack-style carry. The 5,500 BTU burner is modest, but sufficient for 6–8 servings, and the porcelain-enameled grates are dishwasher-safe, a rare luxury in portable grills. If you’re tired of bulky grills that dominate your trunk, this one solves the storage puzzle with elegance.

We used it on a rooftop and in a pop-up camper—its adjustable base leveled perfectly on wobbly surfaces, and the tool-free setup took under 5 minutes. However, the low BTU output means it struggles with thick steaks or high-heat searing. It’s best for light grilling: fish, veggies, burgers, and sausages. The handle is well-placed, but the lid lacks a thermometer.

Against the GasOne, it’s more compact and versatile, though pricier. Compared to the Nexgrill, it offers less power and space, but superior portability and design. It’s the best compact design for city dwellers, minimalist campers, or occasional grillers who value space-saving engineering over raw power—delivering smart design and easy cleanup that justify its niche, even if it’s not a grilling powerhouse.