Planning your next camping trip, tailgating party, or backyard barbecue? Finding the perfect portable gas grill can make all the difference. This buyer's guide reviews the top 10 portable gas grills of 2020, offering a comprehensive comparison to help you choose the ideal model for your needs and budget. Whether you're a seasoned grilling pro or a casual weekend cook, we've covered a range of options, from compact and lightweight grills perfect for backpacking, to larger, more feature-rich models ideal for feeding a crowd.We've considered factors such as portability, ease of use, cooking performance, durability, and price to provide you with an unbiased assessment of each grill. This guide will walk you through the strengths and weaknesses of each model, helping you determine which features are most important to you and ultimately, guiding you to the perfect portable gas grill for your next outdoor cooking adventure. Get ready to fire up the perfect meal, wherever your adventures may take you!
Pros And Cons
- Adjustable legs
- Grill box and griddle (removable)
- Powder-coated finish
- Two independently controlled zones
- Heavy for one person to carry
- Tough glass-reinforced nylon frame
- Rust-resistant cast aluminum body and top
- Fold-up side tables
- Porcelain enameled grates
- Removable catch pan
- Infinite burner control valve
- 140 square inches of cooking surface
- Reaches searing temperatures in 3 minutes
- 14,000 BTUs of infrared heat
- V-shaped grates to reduce flare-ups
- Electronic push-button ignition
- Top latches closed for travel
- Rolls like wheeled luggage when folded
- Three burners for precise heat control
- Includes a water pan to catch grease
- Two slide-out side tables
- Handle isn't very durable
Read more: Top 10 Blue Rhino Gas Grills: Reviews & Buying Guide
George Foreman GP200GM: Versatile Grilling
The George Foreman GP200GM is a fantastic option for smaller cooking needs. Its reversible griddle offers flexibility, allowing you to cook various foods from breakfast to burgers. The nonstick surface prevents food from sticking, while the sloped design ensures efficient fat draining.
Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the dishwasher-safe cooking plate. While the lid's functionality is a minor drawback, its compact size and ease of use make it a convenient choice for smaller households or camping trips.
Coleman RoadTrip 285: Convenient Portability
The Coleman RoadTrip 285 stands out with its innovative design. Its wheeled luggage-style portability makes transportation effortless. Featuring three burners for precise temperature control, it offers versatility for various cooking styles.
The inclusion of a water pan for grease management is a significant plus. While the side tables and accessory cooktops are convenient additions, the handle's durability could be improved. Despite this, its ease of transport and features make it a great option for camping or tailgating.
Volcano Camping Stove: Fuel Flexibility
The Volcano Camping Stove provides remarkable fuel flexibility, accommodating propane, charcoal, or wood. This adaptability makes it suitable for diverse outdoor environments. Its patented cooking chamber ensures efficient heat distribution for consistent cooking results.
The 13-inch grilling surface is ample for a range of dishes, and the diffuser plate enhances cooking performance. While lacking a lid, its compact size (5 inches tall when collapsed) and carrying case make it highly portable and suitable for backpacking and camping adventures.
CGG 306: Precise Heat Control and Durability
The CGG 306 features two powerful 10,000 BTU burners with individual control dials, offering precise heat management for various cooking techniques, from searing to indirect cooking. The integrated temperature gauge (Fahrenheit and Celsius) ensures accurate temperature monitoring.
It connects to full-sized propane tanks, providing extended cooking time. While primarily constructed of stainless steel, the flame tamers are susceptible to rusting, a point to consider for long-term use. Overall, its performance makes it a reliable and robust choice.
CGG 180: Lightweight and Versatile
The CGG 180 offers versatility with its tabletop or freestanding configuration thanks to telescoping legs. Its lightweight design (17 pounds) makes transport simple. Features include a twist-to-start ignition and a locking lid for safety and convenience.
The carrying handle and spill-resistant drip tray further enhance usability. However, the lower BTU output (less than 6000 BTUs) might limit its suitability for larger cooking tasks or faster heating times.
Napoleon TravelQ: Quick Setup and Compact Design
The Napoleon TravelQ boasts quick setup (approximately 10 seconds) and a compact, foldable design, making it ideal for tailgating. The foldable stand elevates the grill slightly for convenient placement on various surfaces.
Its clamshell design and integrated handle make transport easy. The bright orange stamped steel construction adds a visually appealing touch. While lacking some advanced features, its speed and convenience are strong selling points.
Blackstone Tailgater: Adjustable Legs and Versatile Use
The Blackstone Tailgater offers adjustable legs, maximizing table space. Its removable grill box and griddle allow for versatile cooking with pots and pans. The powder-coated finish provides durability.
The two independently controlled zones provide precise heat control. However, its weight might be a challenge for single-person transport. Despite this, its versatility makes it a solid choice for various cooking needs.
Weber Q 2200: Durability and Convenience
The Weber Q 2200 features a durable glass-reinforced nylon frame and rust-resistant cast aluminum body, ensuring longevity. Foldable side tables increase workspace and offer convenience.
Porcelain-enameled grates and a removable catch pan facilitate easy cleanup. The infinite burner control valve allows for precise temperature adjustment. Its robust construction and features make it a reliable high-performing grill.
Charbroil Grill2Go X200: Balanced Weight and Durability
The Charbroil Grill2Go X200 is constructed from a blend of steel, aluminum, and high-impact plastic, striking a balance between weight and durability. Its 20-pound weight and dual handles make it relatively easy to transport.
Even heating and a lid-mounted temperature gauge are key features. The availability of a carrying case further enhances portability. It's a well-rounded option for those who value convenience and even cooking results.
Solo Stove Bonfire: High-Heat Performance
The Solo Stove Bonfire offers a generous cooking surface (140 square inches), accommodating approximately six burgers. Its rapid heating (3 minutes to searing temperatures) is thanks to 14,000 BTUs of infrared heat.
V-shaped grates minimize flare-ups, while electronic push-button ignition and a latching lid add to convenience. Although significantly more expensive than other options, its high-heat performance and features justify the price for serious grilling enthusiasts.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Grill
The best portable gas grill depends on individual needs and preferences. The George Foreman GP200GM excels in versatility and ease of cleaning for smaller cooks. The Coleman RoadTrip 285 and CGG 180 prioritize portability. For fuel flexibility, the Volcano Camping Stove is a top choice.
The CGG 306 and Weber Q 2200 stand out with durability and precise heat control. The Napoleon TravelQ prioritizes speed and compact design, while the Blackstone Tailgater offers versatility with its interchangeable cooking surfaces. Lastly, the Charbroil Grill2Go X200 balances weight and durability, and the Solo Stove Bonfire delivers exceptional high heat performance.
Consider your budget, desired features, and typical cooking scenarios when making your decision. For larger cooking needs and more advanced features, consider the higher-end models like the Weber Q 2200 or Solo Stove Bonfire. For casual grilling, many of the other options deliver excellent value and performance.