This review dives into the Char-Broil 190 Tabletop Grill, evaluating its performance, ease of use, and suitability for smaller spaces. We unpack the initial setup, including assembly and propane tank installation, detailing the experience from unboxing to the first grilling session. We then put the grill to the test, cooking a classic – hot dogs – to assess its heating capabilities, evenness of cooking, and overall efficiency. Particular attention is paid to any notable observations, such as burner noise and temperature consistency, providing a comprehensive overview for potential buyers.This compact grill promises big grilling power in a small footprint, making it ideal for apartments, balconies, or anyone seeking a convenient grilling solution without sacrificing performance. Our review covers the entire process, from assembly and initial burn-in to actual cooking, highlighting both the strengths and minor drawbacks of the Char-Broil 190. We provide a detailed account to help you decide if this tabletop grill is the right fit for your grilling needs.
Read more: 10 Best Commercial Charcoal Grills: A Buyer's Guide
Unboxing and Assembly
The Char-Broil 190 Tabletop Grill arrived last week, and assembly was straightforward. It felt sturdy right out of the box, promising a solid grilling experience.
Initial impressions were positive, showcasing a compact design that would be ideal for smaller spaces or balconies. The propane tank installation was easy, adding to the convenience of this tabletop grill.
Burn-in and Initial Heat Test
Following the manufacturer's instructions, I performed the burn-in at full power for 15 minutes. The grill heated up rapidly and produced significant smoke, a common occurrence during the initial burn-in process.
Noticeable discoloration on the heat shield and drip plate occurred during this process. This seems to be a normal aspect of the initial heating cycle and is to be expected with most grills.
Grilling Hot Dogs: Performance Test
To test the grill's performance, I decided to cook hot dogs. The grill reached medium heat fairly quickly, and I made small slits in the hot dogs to promote even cooking.
After about 10 minutes, the hot dogs were cooked through. The grill did show a slight temperature variation, being hotter closer to the gas valve, but the result was evenly cooked hot dogs.
Noise and Burner Observations
I noticed a burner noise that was more prominent when the lid was open. This seemed to be related to the burner adjusting to the increased airflow.
Once the lid was closed, the noise subsided, suggesting a possible adjustment period for the burner to regulate gas flow. The overall burner seemed strong and efficient.
Final Verdict
Overall, the Char-Broil 190 Tabletop Grill performed well for its size and price point. The compact design is perfect for smaller spaces, and the heating element was efficient, cooking the hot dogs quickly and effectively.
While there was a slight temperature inconsistency, it didn't significantly impact the cooking results. The minor noise issue seems related to airflow and likely not a cause for concern. This grill is a good choice for casual grilling for a few people.