6 Best Grills Under $400 of 2026

Unleash the primal joy of charcoal grilling anywhere—this pint-sized powerhouse delivers real flame-kissed flavor in a truly portable package. With a 14-inch cooking surface (150 sq in) and a 3-point locking lid, the Gas One portable grill traps heat like a mini smoker, ensuring consistent cooking whether you’re searing steaks in the backyard or flipping veggies at a campsite. Its dual venting system gives you precise airflow control, letting you manage temperature like a pitmaster—no guesswork, just rich, even char on everything from sausages to skewers.

Real-world testing reveals it heats up fast and holds temperature remarkably well for its size, thanks to the tight-sealing lid and smart airflow design. We grilled burgers and peppers on a breezy beach day, and the dual vents kept flames stable, while the ash catcher below prevented messy spills—huge for outdoor use where cleanup is a pain. It’s lightweight (under 10 lbs) and folds down neatly, making it perfect for tailgates, RV trips, or small patios. That said, the small footprint limits batch cooking—you’ll need multiple rounds for more than 3–4 people.

Compared to bulkier portable gas grills, this charcoal model wins on flavor and simplicity, though it lacks precise temp dials. It’s not as high-tech as electric grills, but that’s the point: it’s for purists who want authentic grilling without lugging around a tank. Ideal for campers, minimalist outdoor cooks, or anyone craving charcoal taste on the go, it outperforms its price tag. While the Ninja Foodi Smart Grill offers more functions, this one delivers unmatched portable fire-powered performance at a fraction of the cost.

This isn’t just a grill—it’s a kitchen revolution. The Ninja DG551 dominates the countertop appliance game with its 6-in-1 versatility, 500°F cyclonic grilling, and smart thermometer tech that takes the guesswork out of perfect doneness. Whether you’re charring salmon, air frying wings, or dehydrating jerky, it performs like multiple high-end appliances in one, all while taming smoke with its cool-air zone and splatter shield. For home cooks tired of cluttered kitchens and half-cooked meals, this is the ultimate all-in-one solution.

In real-world use, the 1760W motor powers through frozen foods in under 25 minutes, delivering crispy exteriors and juicy interiors—no preheating or defrosting needed. The Smart Thermometer is a game-changer: plug it into a roast, select ‘medium,’ and it auto-stops when perfect. We grilled thick chicken breasts and air-crisped fries simultaneously using the dual layers, and both came out flawlessly. The ceramic-coated parts are dishwasher-safe, but the unit is large—best for kitchens with ample counter or cabinet space. It does produce some smoke with fatty meats, but far less than open-flame grills.

Compared to the Chefman or George Foreman models, the Ninja leaps ahead in precision and functionality, though it’s pricier and less portable. It’s the clear choice over basic electric grills if you want restaurant-quality results at home without firing up the outdoor BBQ. While the George Foreman Family-Size Grill handles more servings, this one blends performance, intelligence, and versatility like no other, making it the undisputed champion for serious indoor grilling.

Grill year-round without setting off smoke alarms—the Chefman smokeless grill makes indoor BBQing effortless, safe, and surprisingly flavorful. With an adjustable temperature knob (from warm to sear) and a water-based smoke reduction system, it delivers consistent, mess-free grilling whether you’re cooking salmon in winter or veggies during a storm. The extra-large non-stick surface means you can sear steaks and grill asparagus side-by-side, and cleanup is a breeze—just pop the removable water tray and grill top into the dishwasher.

We tested it with frozen burgers and bell peppers, and the 1120W heating element brought everything to a perfect char in under 15 minutes. The water tray (filled between min/max lines) truly minimizes smoke—great for apartments or small kitchens. However, it doesn’t achieve the deep sear of gas or Ninja’s cyclonic tech, and the non-adjustable height limits thick cuts. It’s not ideal for large meals, but for quick, healthy meals with minimal cleanup, it’s a standout. The cool-touch handles and auto shut-off add peace of mind, especially for families.

Against the George Foreman models, it offers larger cooking space and better smoke control, but lacks the fat-draining slope or dual-use griddle function. It’s a smarter pick than basic contact grills for those who want flexible, low-fuss indoor grilling without splurging. While the Ninja DG551 is more advanced, this one delivers excellent value for budget-conscious cooks who prioritize simplicity and safety.

Cleanup just got revolutionary—this George Foreman grill lets you wash the entire unit (minus control panel) under water, a feature no other grill offers. With 3x tougher nonstick plates and a 30% faster preheat, it’s built for daily grilling warriors who hate scrubbing stuck-on food. The adjustable 3/4″ hinge accommodates thicker cuts like chicken breasts or loaded sandwiches, while the vertical storage design saves 35% counter space—perfect for small kitchens. It’s the easiest-clean grill on the market, bar none.

In testing, it heated up in under 4 minutes and grilled four burgers evenly, thanks to the even pressure from the hinge. The nonstick surface worked flawlessly—no oil needed, and zero residue after rinsing. However, the cooking surface is smaller than competitors, and the lack of temperature control means you can’t fine-tune doneness. It’s best for quick, healthy meals where fast prep and cleanup trump precision. It produces minimal smoke indoors, but the fat drainage system isn’t as effective as on the Family-Size model.

Compared to the B00KDVJLJW model, it’s easier to clean but slightly less versatile—no removable plates for dishwasher use. While the Ninja offers more functions, this one shines in simplicity and hygiene. Ideal for singles, couples, or anyone who values speed and sanitation, it redefines hassle-free grilling with a feature that’s as practical as it is rare.

This is the ultimate space-saver with big performance—the George Foreman 4-Serving Removable Plate grill packs 60 square inches of cooking power into a compact, storage-friendly design. With removable dishwasher-safe plates and a 35% faster preheat, it’s engineered for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or RVs where every inch counts. The George Tough nonstick coating means no oil, no sticking, and effortless cleanup—just pop the plates in the dishwasher and done.

We grilled chicken, zucchini, and paninis, and the even heating and sloped grease drainage worked flawlessly, delivering healthier, flavorful results. The removable plates are a game-changer—no scrubbing, just rinse or load into the dishwasher. However, the hinge isn’t adjustable, so thick steaks may not close fully. It’s not for large families, but for 2–4 people in tight spaces, it’s ideal. It produces minimal smoke and heats quickly, though it lacks the precision temp control of pricier models.

Compared to the B09XBQHZQQ, it offers removable plates but not full submersion, making cleanup slightly less flexible. Against the Chefman, it’s more compact and better for paninis. It’s the best choice for urban dwellers or minimalists who want reliable, healthy grilling without clutter. While the Ninja DG551 has more features, this one masters the basics with smart, space-saving design.

Built for feeding crowds, this Family-Size George Foreman grill handles 5+ servings with ease, making it the top pick for large families or weekend hosts. Its PFAS-free ceramic nonstick coating is 8x more durable, ensuring long-term performance without harmful chemicals. The adjustable grilling angle lets you tilt for fat drainage or lay flat for paninis, while the 1″ hinge accommodates thick ribeyes or stuffed sandwiches, delivering even sear and consistent results every time.

Real-world tests showed it grilled six chicken breasts evenly in one batch, with grease efficiently channeled into the removable drip tray. The adjustable angle enhances flavor and health, reducing fat without sacrificing taste. It’s durable and simple, but lacks digital controls or removable plates—cleanup requires wiping, not dishwashing. It works indoors and out, but performs best in well-ventilated areas due to minor smoke with fatty meats.

Compared to the B00KDVJLJW, it offers larger capacity and adjustable angle, but less convenient cleaning. While the Ninja DG551 has more functions, this one excels in batch cooking and durability. It’s the best value for big eaters or frequent entertainers, delivering reliable, healthy grilling at scale—a workhorse that outcooks its price.