9 Best Small BBQ Grills for 2026

This pocket-sized powerhouse delivers serious grilling performance in a featherlight package. With 196 sq. in. of chrome-plated cooking space and dual adjustable vents, the Cuisinart tabletop grill offers surprisingly precise temperature control for a budget model—perfect for low-and-slow smoking or searing burgers over high heat. Its lockable lid and mess-free transport make it a go-to for camping trips and tailgates, solving the common pain point of charcoal spillage and awkward carrying.

In real-world use, this mini grill heats up fast and holds steady temps thanks to its enamel-coated firebox and smart airflow system. We tested it on a weekend camping trip, grilling chicken and veggies—results were impressively even, though it struggles slightly with ultra-thick cuts due to limited lid depth. The 4-lb weight makes it ultra-portable, slipping easily into a car trunk, but it’s best suited for small groups of 2–3. While it doesn’t sear like a high-BTU gas grill, it delivers authentic charcoal flavor without the bulk.

Compared to the foldable stainless steel models, this Cuisinart offers more cooking area and better heat retention, though it’s less compact when folded. It’s a smarter pick than ultra-minimalist grills when you want reliable performance without paying premium prices. For budget-conscious adventurers who still want real charcoal taste and easy cleanup, this grill outperforms its price tag—especially when portability and flavor matter more than extreme compactness.

Step into the future of indoor grilling with a unit that effortlessly bridges kitchen and patio use. The Cuisinart 2-in-1 electric grill boasts a massive 240 sq. in. nonstick surface—large enough to feed a small crowd—and features adjustable heat up to 550°F, making it ideal for everything from delicate fish to juicy burgers. Its built-in grease channel and collection cup tackle the biggest indoor grilling headache: messy splatter and flare-ups, giving you restaurant-style results without the cleanup chaos.

We tested this grill on a small apartment balcony and during a rainy-day indoor cookout—the nonstick surface truly shines, releasing food cleanly and wiping down in seconds. The five heat settings offer fine-tuned control, though it lacks the charred sear of charcoal or high-BTU gas grills. It heats evenly across the surface, but crowding the grill can cause slight temp drops. Assembly takes under 10 minutes with no tools, and the 6-foot cord provides flexible placement, whether on a countertop or outdoor stand.

When stacked against portable gas models like the Royal Gourmet GT1001, this grill wins on convenience and indoor usability, though it sacrifices smoky depth and high-heat searing. It’s the clear leader for city dwellers, renters, or anyone with limited outdoor space who still wants consistent, clean grilling. If indoor flexibility and easy maintenance matter most, this Cuisinart delivers more cooking versatility than any charcoal or gas competitor in its class.

Meet the ultra-compact champion for backpackers and minimalist adventurers—the foldable stainless steel marvel that collapses into a sleek 13.7” x 9.4” slab. Weighing next to nothing and built with rust-proof, heat-resistant stainless steel, this grill is engineered for on-the-go grilling anywhere, from mountain trails to beach picnics. Its five side vents deliver solid airflow control, helping maintain consistent heat even on breezy days, while the thickened tripod base ensures stability on uneven terrain.

In field testing, we assembled it in under 3 minutes—just unfold, insert the charcoal tray and grill rack, and fire it up. It handled a full cookout for two with burgers and veggies, though the small 150 sq. in. surface fills up fast. Heat distribution is surprisingly even, but fine temp control requires constant vent monitoring. It lacks a thermometer, so beginners might overcook. The removable rack makes cleanup easy, but the compact size means no room for large cuts or batch cooking.

Next to the Cuisinart 14” model, this one wins on sheer portability and packability, but gives up cooking area and lid locking. It’s not built for tailgating parties or backyard cookouts—this is backcountry gear first, social grilling second. For hikers, campers, or anyone who values ultralight design and rugged durability, this foldable grill offers maximum freedom for minimal weight—a true steal for spontaneous, smoke-kissed meals off-grid.

This stainless steel beast redefines what a portable gas grill can be—rugged, powerful, and built to last. With a 285 sq. in. total cooking space (214 sq. in. primary grate) and a 10,000 BTU U-shaped burner, it delivers fast, even heat that rivals larger backyard grills. The foldable legs and lockable lid make transport a breeze, while the large removable grease tray ensures cleanup is quick and mess-free—no more scrubbing baked-on drippings.

We tested it on a weekend camping trip and a small deck party—performance was impressively consistent, searing steaks beautifully and holding heat even in mild wind. The stainless steel construction resists rust and warping, a major upgrade over coated steel models. It connects to a standard 1-lb propane tank (sold separately), making fuel easy to carry, though tank life runs short on high heat. It’s heavier at 15 lbs, so not ideal for backpacking, but perfect for car camping or tailgating.

Compared to the Cuisinart Grillster, this Royal Gourmet offers nearly double the cooking area and stronger heat output, making it better for families or small gatherings. While pricier, it justifies the cost with superior build and performance. For those who want a durable, high-output portable gas grill that won’t degrade after a few seasons, this is the gold standard for serious outdoor cooks who refuse to compromise.

This engineered-for-excellence grill earns its “Best Overall” title with thoughtful design, heavy-duty build, and real-time temperature control. The built-in lid thermometer is a game-changer, letting you monitor internal heat without lifting the lid—critical for avoiding heat loss and overcooking. With a vertical chimney design and dual side vents, it creates a three-dimensional convection zone that locks in juices and delivers restaurant-quality sear and smoke.

In testing, it heated to 750°F in under 10 minutes and held temp steadily for over an hour. The extra-thick steel body resists warping, even under extreme heat, and the triangular support structure ensures rock-solid stability on grass, sand, or gravel. The 13.5” x 8.8” cooking surface fits 3–4 burgers comfortably, and the chrome-plated stainless rack prevents sticking and simplifies cleaning. Assembly took just 8 minutes with the included screwdriver—fewer parts mean less hassle.

Versus the Weber Smokey Joe, this Joyfair model offers better heat control, sturdier build, and safer handling thanks to its wooden anti-scald handle and upgraded latch. While slightly pricier, it delivers premium features in a compact form. For anyone who wants maximum performance, safety, and durability in a portable charcoal grill—whether for camping, patios, or impromptu BBQs—this is the smartest all-around investment.

The legendary mini kettle that started it all—Weber’s Smokey Joe remains the benchmark for durable, no-nonsense portable grilling. Crafted with porcelain-enameled bowl and lid, it resists rust, retains heat like a forge, and looks sharp for years. The 14-inch cooking grate fits five burgers or a full chicken, and the aluminum damper offers precise airflow control, giving you remarkable command over smoke and sear for such a compact unit.

We tested it on a beach day and a backyard lunch—the heat retention was outstanding, maintaining steady temps for over 90 minutes on a single charcoal load. The glass-reinforced nylon handles stay cool and feel rugged, while the aluminum ash catcher makes post-grill cleanup fast and clean. It’s light enough to carry one-handed, but the round base can tip on uneven ground if not placed carefully. The cooking area is tight for more than three people, and the lid lacks a thermometer.

Next to the Joyfair model, the Smokey Joe trades some modern features (like a thermometer) for unmatched durability and brand legacy. It’s not the most advanced, but it’s built to outlast every other mini grill on the list. For purists who value time-tested reliability, classic design, and true charcoal flavor, this Weber delivers generational quality in a picnic-ready package—a worthy heirloom for lifelong grillers.

Meet the speed demon of portable grilling—a no-assembly, ready-in-minutes gas grill that fires up with a push-button and delivers 600°F+ heat in under five minutes. With an 8,000 BTU burner and 146 sq. in. enameled grate, it’s perfect for quick sears and weekday dinners on the balcony or during weekend tailgates. The 10-lb weight and compact footprint make it ultra-mobile, while the locking lid ensures safe transport without loose parts.

In real use, it excelled at fast grilling—steaks, sausages, and veggies cooked evenly with minimal flare-ups. The drip tray caught most grease, though fatty cuts required occasional emptying. It runs on a 1-lb propane bottle, which fits neatly underneath, but high-heat use drains it in about 1.5 hours. The cooking area is tight for more than three, and wind can disrupt the flame without a wind guard. Still, cleanup is a breeze—just toss the grate in the dishwasher.

Compared to the Royal Gourmet GT1001, this Cuisinart is lighter and faster to start, but sacrifices cooking space and long-session fuel efficiency. It’s the best pick for solo grills, couples, or anyone prioritizing speed and simplicity over capacity. For on-the-go gas grilling with zero setup hassle, this Grillster is hard to beat for urbanites and minimalists.

This barrel-style workhorse is tailor-made for small decks and compact backyards where space is tight but flavor can’t be compromised. The 250 sq. in. cooking surface and thick cast iron grates deliver superior heat retention and deep sear marks, while the side air vent and damper control give you smoker-like precision for ribs or pulled pork. The wooden stay-cool handle and side shelf with tool hooks add serious usability for a grill under $100.

We tested it for slow-smoking chicken—results were juicy, smoky, and evenly cooked, thanks to the excellent airflow management. The wheels make it easy to reposition, and the ash pan simplifies cleanup. At 50 lbs, it’s not portable like tabletop models, but it’s sturdy and weather-resistant for permanent patio placement. The powder-coated steel body holds up well, though it’s not ideal for frequent moving.

Versus the Royal Gourmet GT1001, this Char-Griller offers larger cooking area and cast iron grates but lacks portability. It’s not for campers or tailgaters, but for urban homeowners with small outdoor spaces, it’s a flavor-first powerhouse. If you want serious charcoal taste and smoker capability without a full-sized grill, this Patio Pro delivers big performance in a compact, deck-friendly design.

This ultra-affordable lightweight grill punches above its price with smart features usually seen in pricier models. The 3-point locking lid does more than secure transport—it traps heat like a mini oven, enabling even cooking and subtle smoke infusion. With a 150 sq. in. cooking surface and dual ventilation, it maintains strong airflow for consistent burns, while the built-in ash catcher keeps your site clean—no more messy charcoal dust spreading everywhere.

In testing, it heated quickly and held temp well for short grills, though vent adjustment is less precise than premium models. We grilled burgers and veggies for four—results were tasty, but the lid lacks a thermometer, so monitoring heat is guesswork. The lightweight steel body is easy to carry, perfect for impromptu picnics, but feels less rugged than stainless or enamel-coated builds. It’s not for long smokes or high-heat searing, but ideal for quick, casual grilling.

Compared to the Cuisinart 14” charcoal model, this Gas One offers similar size at a lower cost, but sacrifices chrome plating and lid locks with the same durability. It’s the best budget pick for occasional users who want solid performance without investment. For spontaneous cookouts and light-duty use, this grill delivers maximum value for minimal spend—a hidden gem for first-time grillers and casual adventurers.