The Best Small Grill
From compact gas models to indoor electric griddles, our research-based guide scores the top small grills on portability, performance, and value. Find the perfect fit for your balcony, campsite, or small kitchen.
By Liam Banks
Updated September 11, 2026
Whether you’re cooking on a compact balcony, packing for a weekend camping trip, or simply want a secondary grill for quick meals, a small grill can deliver the same smoky flavor as its full-sized counterpart without dominating your space.
The challenge is finding a model that balances portability, cooking performance, and durability, all while fitting your preferred fuel type.
After evaluating specifications, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback, we’ve scored each contender on our 0, 10 BP Score to help you find the best small grill for your needs.
Our roundup covers gas, charcoal, and electric options ranging from portable propane units to indoor electric griddles, so you can compare the top-rated picks side by side.
Below, you’ll find our curated list of the best small grills, followed by a detailed buying guide and answers to common questions.
Ninja GR101 14-Inch Indoor Grill & Griddle
This indoor electric grill from Ninja offers interchangeable grill and griddle plates, reaching 500°F for high-heat searing. Its edge-to-edge heating ensures even cooking, while the perforated mesh lid helps control smoke, making it suitable for family meals of 4-6 people.
Pros
- Interchangeable grill and griddle plates
- Reaches 500°F for high-heat searing
- Edge-to-edge heating for even cooking
- Low smoke design with perforated lid
- Family-sized capacity for 4-6 people
- Nonstick removable plates for easy cleanup
Cons
- Large footprint requires ample counter space
- Heavy at 7.8 pounds
- Only one set of plates included
Cuisinart 2-Burner Portable Grill 20K BTU
The Cuisinart Chef's Style Tabletop Propane Grill combines quick tool-free setup with two powerful 10,000 BTU burners for versatile grilling. Its stainless steel grates provide even heat, and the integrated thermometer gives precise temperature control. Weighing just 22 pounds with folding legs and a carry handle, it's ideal for camping, tailgating, or backyard use.
Pros
- Tool-free setup in under 10 minutes
- Two 10,000 BTU burners for powerful heat
- Stainless steel grates for even cooking
- Lightweight at 22 lbs with folding legs and carry handle
- Integrated thermometer and adjustable knobs for precise control
Cons
- Compact size may limit cooking for large groups
- Requires separate propane tank (not included)
George Foreman Contact Submersible 5-Serving Grill
This electric grill from George Foreman is designed for easy cleanup and consistent cooking. Its fully submersible construction and dishwasher-safe parts simplify maintenance, while the adjustable temperature control gives you precise heat for different foods. It is a solid choice for households that want a family-sized grill without the hassle of scrubbing.
Pros
- Dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleaning
- Faster preheat saves time
- Durable nonstick coating
- Adjustable temperature control
- Family-sized cooking capacity
Cons
- Control panel must be removed before washing
- No integrated timer or auto-shutoff
- Limited color options
ROCKET CHEF Turbo Grill Deluxe Microwave Pan
This microwave grill pan turns your microwave into a high-heat grill, reaching up to 750°F to sear and brown foods quickly. The ceramic nonstick surface and vented lid make it a convenient, low-mess option for fast meals in dorms, RVs, or small kitchens.
Pros
- High-heat searing up to 750°F
- Ceramic nonstick, PTFE and PFOA free
- Vented lid reduces mess
- Versatile for various foods
- Compact and portable design
Cons
- Only 12 oz capacity may be small
- Requires microwave, not stovetop or oven
Charbroil 465133010 Portable 1-Burner Grill
This portable propane grill offers a compact 190-square-inch cooking surface and durable porcelain-coated grates. Its steel construction with a high-temperature finish resists rust, and minimal assembly gets you grilling quickly. An ideal choice for camping, tailgating, or small patios.
Pros
- Porcelain-coated grates resist rust and clean easily
- Steel build with high-temperature finish for durability
- 190 sq in cooking space in a portable size
- Minimal assembly required
- Lightweight at 11 pounds for easy transport
Cons
- Short 90-day warranty compared to longer coverages
George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill
With a removable stand and adjustable temperature control, this electric grill works both indoors and outdoors without charcoal or propane. Its signature sloped surface removes excess fat, making it a versatile choice for healthier grilling.
Pros
- Durable nonstick coating
- Fat-removing sloped design
- Versatile indoor/outdoor use
- Easy temperature adjustment
- No flare-ups or gas required
Cons
- Requires preheating for 10 minutes
- Stand must be used on level surface
- Nonstick coating requires careful cleaning
Weber Traveler Compact Gas Grill
Designed for tailgates, camping, and picnics, the Weber Traveler Compact packs a full-sized cooking experience into a portable form. With a one-hand folding mechanism and durable wheels, it's easy to transport and set up, while the porcelain-enameled grates and lid ensure consistent heat and easy cleanup.
Pros
- Fits in most car trunks
- One-hand folding and unfolding
- Durable wheels for any terrain
- Porcelain-enameled grates retain heat
- Front access grease tray for easy cleaning
Cons
- Heavy at 37 pounds
- Large folded footprint
George Foreman Family Grill & Panini Press
This versatile George Foreman grill and panini press serves five people with an adjustable cooking angle for searing or flat panini cooking. It features a PFAS-free ceramic nonstick coating that is 8x more durable and a fat-removing slope for healthier grilling. Ideal for families who want indoor or outdoor use with easy cleanup.
Pros
- PFAS-free durable nonstick coating
- Adjustable angle for searing or paninis
- Fat-removing slope for healthier grilling
- Dishwasher-safe drip tray
- Vertical storage saves space
Hamilton Beach 450°F Indoor Searing Grill
This electric grill brings outdoor-style searing indoors with a 450°F maximum temperature, locking in juices. Its nonstick, PFAS-free plate and removable lid make cleanup easy, while the drip tray catches mess. Ideal for year-round grilling of steaks, chicken, and veggies.
Pros
- High searing temperature at 450°F
- Nonstick, PFAS-free surface
- Dishwasher-safe removable plate and lid
- Adjustable temperature control
- Large drip tray for easy cleanup
Weber Smokey Joe 14-Inch Portable Charcoal Grill
This compact charcoal grill packs Weber's signature build quality into a portable package ideal for camping, tailgating, or small patios. Its porcelain-enamel finish resists rust, and the Tuck-N-Carry lid lock makes transport simple while doubling as a lid holder for added convenience.
Pros
- Durable porcelain-enamel finish resists rust
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Lid lock secures grill during transport
- Ash catcher simplifies clean-up
- Compact size fits small spaces
Cons
- Small cooking surface limits batch grilling
- No built-in thermometer
- Ash catcher may need emptying mid-cook
George Foreman GR10B 2-Serving Mini Grill
This compact electric grill is designed for one or two people, making it a practical choice for dorm rooms, small apartments, or tight countertops. Its nonstick plates and sloped surface help reduce fat while simplifying cleanup.
Pros
- Compact size fits small kitchens and dorms
- Nonstick coating reduces need for oil
- Sloped surface removes up to 42% fat
- Dishwasher-safe drip tray for easy cleanup
Cons
- Only suitable for 1-2 servings
- Small cooking surface limits food size
- No adjustable temperature control
Ninja GX101 Pro XL 20-Inch Griddle & Grill
This electric griddle and grill combo from Ninja offers a large 20-inch cooking surface that fits 10+ burgers or a full breakfast for 8-10 people. Interchangeable griddle and grill plates, precise temperature control from 250°F to 500°F, and a detachable lid make it a versatile indoor option for family cooks seeking even heating and easy cleanup.
Pros
- XL family-sized capacity
- Even edge-to-edge heating
- Precise temperature control
- Interchangeable griddle and grill plates
- PFAS-free ceramic nonstick surface
Cons
- Heavy at 23 pounds
- Bulky footprint for storage
Best Small Grill Buying Guide
Size and Portability
The defining feature of a small grill is its footprint. Measure your available space, balcony, tailgate, or countertop, before shopping.
Portable models like the Weber Smokey Joe or the Cuisinart Outdoor Gas Grill are designed for easy transport, with folding legs or compact bodies that fit in a car trunk.
For indoor use, consider the George Foreman GR10B, whose footprint is smaller than a sheet of paper. If you plan to move your grill frequently, look for models with locking lids, carrying handles, and lightweight construction under 20 pounds.
Compact grills often sacrifice cooking area, but many now offer clever design tricks.
For example, the Weber Traveler folds into a cart that doubles as a stand, while the Ninja Sizzle features a flat griddle surface that can replace both a grill and a pan.
Always check the assembled dimensions and consider how the grill will be stored when not in use. For more guidance on selecting a portable option, browse our roundup of small meat smokers and accessories.
Fuel Type: Gas, Charcoal, or Electric
Your choice of fuel affects flavor, convenience, and where you can cook. Gas grills like the Cuisinart 20,000 BTU model offer instant ignition and precise temperature control, making them ideal for quick weeknight dinners.
Charcoal grills, such as the Weber Smokey Joe, provide that authentic smoky taste beloved by barbecue purists but require more time to light and manage.
Electric grills, including the Ninja Sizzle and George Foreman lines, are perfect for apartments or dorms where open flames aren’t allowed, they heat up fast and are easy to clean.
If you’re torn between gas and charcoal, consider a hybrid approach: some portable grills can use both fuel types, but they are rare. For dedicated gas cooking, check out the best gas grill for every backyard cook.
If electric is your only option, note that most indoor electric grills need a nearby outlet and may not reach the high searing temperatures of outdoor models.
Cooking Surface and Capacity
A small grill doesn’t have to mean tiny portions. Cooking surface area is measured in square inches, and for most small grills, you’ll see figures between 100 and 300 square inches.
That’s enough for 4, 6 burgers, a few chicken breasts, or a couple of steaks.
The George Foreman Family Grill offers a ceramic nonstick surface that can handle up to five servings, while the ROCKET CHEF Turbo Grill Deluxe uses a microwave-safe pan with a lid for rapid cooking.
Consider the shape of the cooking surface as well: rectangular griddles like the Ninja Sizzle Pro XL are better for bacon and pancakes, while round charcoal grills excel at even heat distribution for skewers.
If you often cook for more than two people, aim for at least 200 square inches. For larger gatherings, a flat top grill might be a better fit, but for everyday use, a compact grill is perfectly adequate.
Build Quality and Ease of Cleaning
A well-built small grill should last for years with proper care. Look for stainless steel burners, porcelain-enameled grates, and sturdy legs or stands. Cheaper models may use painted steel that rusts quickly.
Electric grills with nonstick plates, like the George Foreman Submersible, can be washed entirely under running water, a huge convenience. For gas and charcoal models, removable drip trays and ash catchers simplify cleanup.
A good grill brush is essential; our guide to ceramic grate brushes can help maintain nonstick surfaces.
Read verified buyer feedback to spot common complaints about flimsy parts or difficult disassembly. Many top-rated small grills feature rust-resistant materials and easy-to-replace components.
If you plan to leave your grill outside, consider a weatherproof cover or store it in a shed when not in use.
Temperature Control and Versatility
Precise heat management separates a great small grill from a frustrating one. Gas grills with multiple burners allow zone cooking, sear on high, then move to low heat.
Electric models like the Hamilton Beach Indoor Searing Grill include a viewing window and adjustable thermostat. Charcoal grills rely on air vents; the Weber Smokey Joe has a simple damper system that gives you reasonable control once you learn it.
Versatility is also key. Some small grills double as griddles or panini presses. The George Foreman GR10B can toast sandwiches and grill vegetables, while the Ninja Sizzle reaches 500°F for a proper sear.
If you enjoy smoking, a small charcoal grill can double as a smoker with the right accessories. For more tips on temperature management, read about smokers with temperature control.
Why You Should Trust Us
At BestProducts, we are an independent review organization. Every product featured is scored on our 0, 10 BP Score using a consistent methodology that prioritizes real-world performance data.
We evaluate specifications, aggregate expert review consensus, and analyze verified buyer feedback from thousands of users. We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback.
Our affiliate relationships never influence our ratings or editorial content. This transparency ensures you can shop with confidence.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best small grill comes down to your space, fuel preference, and cooking style. Here are our top picks based on BP Score and performance:
- Best Overall: Cuisinart Outdoor Gas Grill, This 20,000 BTU two-burner model delivers powerful, even heat in a portable package, earning the highest BP Score in our roundup for its balance of performance and value.
- Best Electric Grill: Ninja Sizzle Indoor Grill & Griddle, With a large 14-inch surface and 500°F max temperature, this indoor grill rivals outdoor models for searing and versatility, scoring 9.9/10.
- Best Budget Pick: George Foreman GR10B Mini Grill, At under $30, this compact electric grill is ideal for dorm rooms or small kitchens, offering a nonstick surface and easy cleanup (BP Score 9.6).
- Best Portable Charcoal: Weber Smokey Joe 14-Inch Charcoal Grill, A classic charcoal kettle that’s easy to transport and delivers authentic smoky flavor, earning a BP Score of 9.6 for its durability and simplicity.
- Best for Small Kitchens: George Foreman Contact Submersible Grill, This 5-serving electric grill features removable plates that are fully washable, making it a top choice for tight spaces (BP Score 9.9).
Frequently Asked Questions
What size small grill is best for a balcony?
For a standard apartment balcony, look for a grill with a footprint under 24 inches wide and 18 inches deep. Electric grills like the Ninja Sizzle or Hamilton Beach Indoor Searing Grill are often allowed even where gas or charcoal is prohibited.
Always check your building’s fire regulations before buying.
Can I use a small grill for camping?
Yes. Portable propane grills like the Weber Traveler and Cuisinart Outdoor Gas Grill are designed for camping and tailgating. They run on small propane cylinders and fold up for easy transport.
Charcoal grills like the Weber Smokey Joe are also popular but require you to bring charcoal and a lighter.
How do I clean a small electric grill?
Most electric grills have nonstick cooking plates. After cooling, wipe them with a damp cloth or sponge. Some models, like the George Foreman Submersible, allow you to wash the entire grill under running water.
For stubborn residue, use a non-abrasive brush. Check the manufacturer’s instructions, some plates are dishwasher safe.
Are small gas grills safe for indoor use?
No. Propane and natural gas grills produce carbon monoxide and must only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas. Never operate a gas grill in a garage, tent, or enclosed porch. For indoor cooking, choose an electric grill or a contact grill.
How many burgers can a small grill cook at once?
It depends on the cooking surface. A grill with 150, 200 square inches can typically fit 4, 6 quarter-pound patties. Compact models like the George Foreman GR10B (around 40 square inches) cook 1, 2 servings at a time.
If you regularly cook for a crowd, consider a larger portable grill or a griddle.
About the author
Liam covers pressure washers, grills, and smokers for BestProducts, judging cleaning power, heat control, and builds that survive a season outdoors. He helps readers restore a driveway and cook well in the backyard.