A tabletop grill is a great way to enjoy delicious grilled food on the go. Many of these grills are compact and portable, which is perfect for tailgates, camping trips, barbecuing in your backyard, and more! Some tabletop grills come with a propane tank while others can be used using a butane cartridge. Both options offer an easy clean-up process.
We spent more than 70 hours researching and testing tabletop grills to find out which one is the best. While some grills simply had more features than others, when it came down to cooking ability, nothing held a candle to our top pick: Cuisinart CGG-180T Tabletop Grill. Not only was this grill able to cook food evenly but it also heats up in less than 5 minutes!
Keep reading to learn more about another option of the best tabletop grill.
10 Best Tabletop Grills Reviewed
1. Giantex Propane Tabletop Gas Grill Stainless Steel Two-Burner BBQ, with Foldable Leg
Highlight Features
- Non-stick grill surface eliminates food sticking to the cooking surface for easy clean-up.
- The high heat sear zone of intense blue, with a low heat zone of red, offers greater temperature control when grilling.
- Dual indicator lights allow you to monitor the amount of power being used by each burner and when it’s time to refill the propane tank.
- Easy to turn knobs control heat and flame.
- Stainless steel housing adds durability and is easy to clean.
- The lid has side venting for reduced wind/heat when cooking outdoors in open spaces such as parks or beaches.
- Comes with a removable grease tray, allowing you to collect used fats after grilling.
- Safe to touch with its cool exterior design.
If you’re an enthusiastic griller, you may believe that a tabletop grill cannot replace a traditional barbeque. If it could, and you could bring it to your home, lake, or even park, wouldn’t that be appealing? We’ve got an outstanding competitor that combines the best of both worlds: the Giantex two-burner, 22,000 BTU tabletop grill, which is one of the largest grills on our list.
The primary advantage of this type is its electrical igniting mechanism, which is self-contained. two 15,000 BTU burners, enabling the user to rapidly reach high temperatures and the flexibility to generate two heat zones genuine full-size grilling experience on a convenient tabletop model.
The two burner design and 266 square inches of cooking area make this grill really versatile and capable of cooking for parties of about eight or more. Made of stainless steel 430 with a detachable drip tray following your cooking, cleanup is a breeze.
It’s also worth mentioning that the whole thing weighs 26 pounds, considering its size and construction materials. Although it is not the lightest grill on the list, it is tabletop-quality, with fold-down legs and locking latches on the lid. This makes it very convenient to transport or store in its cube-like compressed form.
Finally, a built-in lid thermometer is included to monitor grill temperatures, as is a gas line that is longer than many in the tabletop sector, measuring a helpful 40 inches in length, allowing for a wider range of placement options for the grill and gas supply.
2. Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Propane Gas Grill
Highlight Features
- Foldable legs make it easy to transport.
- Compact size for easy carrying and space-saving storage.
- Adjustable height design that elevates the cooking surface to waist level without the necessity of a table.
- Designed to run on tiny gas canisters, but may be linked with larger ones.
If your picnic idea includes just warm food, you’ll need an outside grill that’s easy to pack, transport, and then set up. This one is likely to be the simplest of the bunch. If you think that mobility and compact size are two of the most essential characteristics of a tabletop grill, this is one worth considering.
When the legs are folded and the lid is sealed shut, it resembles a suitcase. With a large carrying handle and a weight of just 13.5 pounds, it couldn’t be more easy to carry. It’s the Cuisinart Petite Gourmet, which measures 18.6 x 17.6 x 11.8 inches. 11.8inches and a cooking area of 145 square inches. This implies that it is suited for cooking for a maximum of four people.
Cuisinart claims they can make up to eight burgers, but I’m guessing they’re tiny burgers. I’d recommend no more than four or six. Thus, cooking four steaks or burgers together with a couple ears of corn represents its full potential. The stainless steel burner produces 5,500 BTUs. Although it is not very powerful, it is sufficient for the job.
Legs are lengthy on a tabletop barbecue to keep your center of gravity low and the grill stable. The legs are adjustable, allowing you to elevate the device to about waist height without the need of a table. The system is intended to operate on disposable tiny gas canisters. Additionally, it may be linked to bigger canisters.
3. Weber 121020 Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill
Highlight Features
- Perfect portability for camping or RV trips
- Made of durable stainless steel components
- Offers the ability to adjust airflow and create smokey flavor, for perfect grilled food every time.
The range of barbecues offered by Weber is lauded in tabletop grill reviews. With decades of experience, it’s simple to understand why. It is guaranteed that you will discover the best charcoal grill manufactured by a reputable manufacturer that has been tried and proven by hundreds, if not THOUSANDS, of people before you.
With a strong stainless steel grate that has been triple-coated with nickel and a porcelain lid that is resistant to corrosion, This is a tabletop charcoal barbecue that is designed to endure for decades. Thus, you’ll have plenty of time to use its massive cooking surface, which can accommodate six burgers or four medium-sized steaks.
With charcoal fuel, you’re sure to get a deep, smokey taste and the perfect grill marks for the ideal carnivore’s dinner. To help you in achieving the ideal steak This model has dampers on both the lid and base to regulate airflow and cooking temperature.
If you’re looking for the most efficient tabletop cooking solution for your outdoor activities or lengthy RV trips, the Weber Go-Anywhere tabletop charcoal grill is your best option. If the name does not convey it, this tabletop charcoal grill is highly portable and flexible. There is no longer a need to sacrifice flavor in order to be portable!
4. NOMADIQ Portable Propane Gas Grill – Small, Mini, Lightweight Tabletop BBQ
Highlight Features
- It has an electrical ignition system for fast and simple start-up
- Two independently controlled stainless steel cooktops generate 9200 BTU per hour
- Very versatile and easy to use, whether in the kitchen or on a picnic table
- It’s compact for storage and not too heavy when carrying it around
You can tell the NOMADIQ Propane gas Grill was designed with portability in mind. It is just 12 pounds in weight. Its unique design has two huge grates that fold away when not in use, creating a sleek and compact form with an integrated handle.
The NOMADIQ Grill has a total cooking surface of 226 square inches, which is divided between two nonstick grates and heated by two independently controlled stainless steel cooktops that generate 9200 BTU per hour.
The grill is portable and comes with two drip trays, a gas regulator/hose, and a carrying strap. According to the manufacturer, it can be put up in less than 45 minutes. It has an electrical ignition system for fast and simple start-up, as well as dishwasher-safe grills for easy cleaning after a fun day at the park or beach.
Despite its compact size, our test subject was very impressed with the grill’s performance: The grill produced an equal flame and cooked burgers and chicken evenly and fast, regardless of where they were put on the grill.
5. Solaire SOL-EV17A Everywhere Portable Infrared Propane Gas Grill
Highlight Features
- Adjustable heat settings
- Portable
- Heats up quickly to high temperatures.
- Highly recommended for searing steaks, duck breasts, scallops etc.
- You can even cook a whole chicken or turkey on it.
- Perfect during camping because of its portability.
Its Solaire Everywhere infrared grill is the most innovative item in our inventory and excels in a wide range of areas. It is little and nimble. Second, it is constructed in a sturdy and quiet manner.
Additionally, the high-powered ceramic “flameless” burner lies under a well-designed grate of V-shaped bars that cooks steaks more efficiently than the other items in our test. The heat source may be very high, and the food cooks rapidly. If you want those magnificent cuts of meat that need just a little amount of heat, This portable barbecue is the most efficient on the market.
It’s difficult to get an uncompromised high-heat cooking experience without any drawbacks. That would be the Solaire. Everywhere is quite distinct. The grill’s top is tiny, with space for just two or three steaks at a time.
Additionally, it is very costly. Then, and this is the critical point, The low-heat performance is negligible. While heating settings may be changed, they should be categorized as “High” to “Extremely High.” Additionally, the lid is movable; it cannot be closed during cooking. While steaks may be prepared elegantly, some dishes are more challenging to prepare properly.
6. Masterbuilt SH19030819 Propane Tabletop Grill
Highlight Features
- 10,000 BTU tabletop gas grill
- Stainless steel design with thermometer
- Folds down to create a suitcase-like structure for easy carrying and storing
- Made from durable materials
The grill is constructed of durable materials and has an adjustable leg system that folds down to about 20 pounds. When the lid is closed, the form resembles that of a suitcase. That is the manner in which it is meant to be carried while not in use.
The tabletop gas grill has one burner, which boosts the BTU rating to 10,000, providing enough area for cooking burgers, steaks, and veggies. The lid is secured with many built-in locks, and above the stainless steel lid is an analog thermometer that will help you in calculating the optimal moment to start grilling.
The grill grate is concealed under the grill, and this tabletop grill has an integrated drip tray that catches all oil, fat, and liquids from the food you cook. This makes it an excellent choice for those who often grill sausages and minced meat.
7. Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Sportsman’s Grill with Coal Door
Highlight Features
- Can be used with charcoal and wood (coal chamber is separate from the cooking surface)
- Cast iron doors protect against heat and ensure maximum air flow for faster heating
- Comes with a wooden stand that enhances the flavor of food when combined with charcoal briquettes
Lodge is a well-known manufacturer of cast iron cookware and appliances around the globe. This tabletop charcoal grill is an excellent addition to any kitchen, not only for its construction material but also for its flexibility. However, keep in mind that this grill is somewhat bigger than the others due to its design and weight of 27,020 pounds.
The tabletop charcoal grill’s versatility stems from the fact that it is basically a small hibachi grill. This enables you to explore a whole new realm of culinary possibilities in terms of the recipes you can create and the meals you can prepare. Cast iron improves with age. However, regardless of whether it is already seasoned, it must be seasoned on a regular basis.
The grill is constructed from a robust stainless-steel wire that has been twisted into the shape of a handle. The coal chamber is accessible through the side entrance. It is protected by cast-iron doors.
8. Char-Griller E22424 Table Top Charcoal Grill and Side Fire Box
Highlight Features
- 25 square feet of grilling surface
- Heavy-duty steel construction
- Removable ash pan
- Dual dampers for temperature regulation
- Wooden lid handle; reduces the risk of burns
- Fits on barrels from Char-Griller
- Can function as a firebox
- Easy assembly
If you’re a charcoal griller, The Char-Griller E22424 is an excellent option. Prepare for Texas-style grilling with this buy. It’ll undoubtedly be the topic of your tailgate gatherings. With a strong steel construction and a design evocative of barrel grills laid horizontally, this model exudes machismo. The grilling technique complements the product’s overall design.
The cast iron grates cover a grilling surface of 25 square feet. It is sufficient for a whole family or a moderately sized group. Sturdy steel legs support the framework. The drawers pull out to provide access to the coal, and there are simple-to-remove ash pans for convenient disposal of any by-products. When grilling, a wooden lid handle eliminates the danger of burning.
The whole charcoal barbecue is purpose-built. Dampers are used to control the airflow and temperature of the grill, ensuring optimal grilling performance. Additionally, it may be utilized as a firebox. It readily fits Char-Griller barrel grills. There is, however, one caveat. Once changed to a firebox, there is no way to convert it back to a grill. This is because turning it into a firebox requires drilling holes.
9. Pit Boss Grills 75275 Stainless Steel Two-Burner Portable Grill
Highlight Features
- Stainless steel construction for durability and longevity.
- Push-and-turn ignition for easy start up.
- An insulated side burner makes versatile cooking possible, such as boiling water or thinly frying vegetables.
- Two stainless steel burners produce 25,000 BTU/hr (9,072 Watts) of intense heat for searing your favorite meats.
- Porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grates make the cooking surface smooth and easy to clean.
- An easy-to-read thermometer ensures precise temperature control.
The major characteristics of this Pit Boss Grills 75275 Stainless Steel Two-Burner Portable Grill are its durability and mobility. The grill is constructed of stainless steel to ensure its longevity. The burners are robust and separately operated, allowing for greater heat control, versatility, and adaptability.
Despite its little size, it is powerful enough to sear your steaks. With a push-and-turn ignition and an insulated thermometer, the tabletop is simple. It’s an ideal companion for beach vacations, RV trips, and tailgate parties. With a weight of 23,500 pounds, this beast is not going to give you back discomfort. Its portability enables you to carry it from the trunk of your vehicle to any place to which you are needed to go.
10. ISUMER Charcoal Grill Barbecue Portable BBQ
Highlight Features
- 585-square-inch cooking surface.
- Portable tabletop design.
- Foldable for easy storage.
- Iron construction with ash catcher.
- Adjustable height and angle.
Its ISUMER Charcoal Barbecue does not conform to the conventional definition of an open-top grill. It is bigger than the company’s own model, but smaller than ordinary grills. We are particularly intrigued by its capacity to fold. The whole structure collapses for storage, making it an ideal tabletop grill for portability.
Your family and friends will be in amazement as you unfold it into a very colossal and beautiful work of art. The primary advantage of this Acrobatic charcoal BBQ barbecue is the amount of cooking area. It is 585 square inches in size. This is by far the biggest item we’ve evaluated so far. You’re going to get a full grilling experience with this charcoal-fueled stainless steel barbecue.
Air vents on the grill’s sidewalls guarantee a constant flow of air inside the charcoal-burner. This also ensures that the charcoal burns at its peak, which imparts a smoky flavor to your barbecues, which is one of the main reasons you may be contemplating charcoal-powered devices.
It is made of fine iron, which is an excellent conductor of heat. It is equipped with an ash catcher. This makes cleaning a breeze. Although the device is lightweight, it gives the sense that it is either too thin or not durable enough for long-term usage. It’s very reasonably priced.
What to look for in a Tabletop Grill
Tabletop grills serve multiple purposes. They can be brought on camping trips, used when you’re tailgating at sporting events, or used when you’re having a party indoors. In many ways, these units are meant to be an all-in-one solution for cooking your meals. However, not every unit is made equally. To ensure you’re going to get a product that works for your needs, there are a few things you need to consider when looking over the options in this category.
1. The Number of Burners
The vast majority of tabletop grills have one burner. However, there are a handful that features two burners which can be very helpful in certain situations. These units generate heat from both ends and this gives you more flexibility when cooking your food because once the meal begins to cool down, it will continue cooking from the other side. In addition, these types of units often come with bigger grilling surfaces which means you can cook larger meals at once without having to worry about them overlapping or falling into the burners.
2. The Type of Fuel Used
Tabletop grills are going to run on a variety of fuels, but the most common ones are propane and charcoal. Each have their own unique set of advantages and disadvantages with most users preferring one over the other. Propane is typically easier to find (especially if you buy it in tanks), is cheaper per unit, and burns hotter than charcoal which makes it better suited for quick-cooking items like burgers or hotdogs. Charcoal, on the other hand, gives off a more distinctive smoky flavor that isn’t found with gas powered units and emits less greenhouse gases. No matter what fuel you decide to go with, it’s that your grill can support it which will make your life a lot easier.
3. The Construction
This is one area where tabletop grills truly shine because they provide an enclosed cooking surface and can be made from quality materials like stainless steel, cast iron, and others. Not only does this help to retain the heat better than other types of portable grills but it also makes them more durable because you won’t have to worry about debris falling into the grill through open vents or flames licking against flimsy sheet metal. These units typically last longer than other portable grills even with rough use so if you’re someone who likes to bring their equipment on long camping trips, these are often the best option for you.
4. The Build Quality
One thing to keep in mind is that tabletop grills are designed to be used outdoors which means they’re going to have to deal with harsher weather conditions. As a result, you want a unit that is built well enough so it can handle being exposed to the elements for an extended period of time. Many units come with covers that protect them from rain or other debris but if yours doesn’t or you need extra protection, make sure the grill has an IP (ingress protection) rating of at least IP-65. This means it will withstand submersion for up to 30 minutes at depths of 1 meter and protect against any dust particles as well.
5. Size
Tabletop grills typically range in size from small, personal units that can be taken camping or into the woods to larger ones designed for use in the backyard when you’re having a party. The size of your grill should depend on how many people you plan on cooking for at once, where you’ll be using it most often, and what other equipment you’ll need to bring with you if any. If it’s just an occasional cookout, then any size will do but if this is going to become your go-to method of cooking outdoors, then pick one that has enough surface area to accommodate larger meals without overcrowding them together.
6. Extra Features
Some tabletop grills come with special features like retractable legs which makes them easier to take wherever you might need them. Others come with additional components like side tables so you have a place to set plates or drinks while you’re cooking. There are even units designed with small refrigerators that can be used for keeping beverages cold or prepping ingredients. No matter what your preferences are, look for tabletop grills that offer the features you want without forcing you to break your budget in order to obtain them.
7. The Price Tag
One of the most important things to keep in mind when shopping for any type of grill is understanding how much it’s actually going to cost. While tabletop units usually aren’t as expensive as larger styles (due to their smaller size), they can still become pricey which is why it’s important not go too cheap and end up with an inferior product that doesn’t cook food very well or is made from subpar materials. If you’re not sure what your budget should be, consider doing some research online to see what other people are paying for their tabletop grills and make sure the one you go with falls at or under the average price range. This will help prevent any nasty surprises later on because if something goes wrong with your grill, it may be difficult finding replacement parts if they’re not readily available.
8. The Accessories
Tabletop grills usually come with a few accessories but don’t assume that you have everything you need to get started right away unless the manufacturer says so. Some units come with built-in side tables which may be all you need while others can be connected to additional components like griddles and other specialized surfaces. If you know what other equipment you’ll need for your grill, look for a model that comes with everything so there’s no extra expense or guesswork on your part.
9. Quick Cleaning
One of the best parts about using tabletop grills is that they’re usually small enough to clean very easily since all the excess grease and residue falls through the grates as food cooks. If you’re not careful though, these smaller units can quickly become a fire hazard because it’s easy to make mistakes when trying to clean it after every use. To avoid this problem, read up on any tips or tricks provided by the manufacturer before you start cleaning and make sure you’re familiar with how it’s supposed to be done.
FAQs
Are tabletop grills only for cooking small amounts of food?
A: Tabletop grills can be used to cook large amounts of food too but it’s best to get one that has enough surface area to accommodate larger meals without overcrowding them together. If you plan on cooking large items, make sure you have room to place an adequate amount of space between the pieces of food so they don’t become stuck together while they’re being cooked.
What are some common safety precautions I need to take when using a tabletop grill?
A: There are two important rules that aren’t usually mentioned when it comes to cooking on a tabletop grill. First, never leave your unit unattended – if you’re just stepping away for a few minutes, always turn it off. Second, choose pots and pans that are suitable for cooking on tabletop grills – avoid using copper, aluminum or cast iron if possible since they can discolor the surface of your grill over time.
Will I need to buy any additional components?
A: If you plan on using specific types of pots or pans with your tabletop grill, make sure they won’t damage the unit’s surface by looking into what materials are safe for use with them beforehand. Most units come with some type of safety precautions which should be noted in their manual so follow them closely when you get started.
Are tabletop grills any good for camping?
A: Since most outdoor campgrounds don’t allow open fires anymore, it may be difficult to use traditional versions of this cooking equipment but there are newer options available that run off electricity or propane which are more suited for camping. These may not be quite as good as open fire grills but they’ll still give you a fairly similar experience nonetheless.
Can tabletop grills be used indoors?
A: Under most circumstances, it’s recommended to keep tabletop grills outdoors because of the intense heat and potential danger involved with cooking on them but many units come with safety features that make them suitable for indoor use if needed. It might take some extra precautions to make sure everything is done correctly though, such as using cooking gloves or keeping an eye on pets and small children while you’re working which shouldn’t pose too much of a problem anyway.
If you own one at home already and love how convenient it is, why not get a second one so you can enjoy the benefits of tabletop grills more often? If you don’t have one yet, these units are definitely worth looking into because they’re not only easy to use but also very helpful for camping and other outdoor activities.
Conclusion
Our winner is the Giantex Propane Tabletop Gas Grill. It offers everything you could ever want from a tabletop grill and more because it comes with so many useful accessories to make your life easier during use. With this model, you won’t have to worry about safety hazards while cooking since it’s designed for maximum convenience and durability no matter where you go or what you do while using it.
