Best Portable Grills 2025
Grilling season never really ends—it just changes locations. Whether you’re tailgating, camping, or don’t want to haul out your full-sized grill, a portable grill is the perfect solution. Compact, reliable, and surprisingly powerful, these grills are designed to bring big flavor wherever you go.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the 5 Best Portable Grills of 2025. From gas-powered convenience to smoky charcoal flavor and even pellet grills that rival full-sized smokers, you’ll find the perfect match for your next adventure.
1. Weber Q1200 Gas Grill – Best Overall Portable Grill
The Weber Q1200 continues to dominate the portable grill market thanks to its unbeatable combination of performance, build quality, and portability.
Key Features:
- 8,500 BTUs of cooking power
- 189 sq. in. cooking surface (fits 6 burgers easily)
- Cast-iron, porcelain-enameled cooking grates for perfect searing
- Built-in thermometer + electronic ignition
- Fold-out side tables for tools & plates
What sets the Q1200 apart is its ease of use—it comes fully assembled out of the box, and the folding side tables make prep and serving easy. Whether at a tailgate or campsite, the Weber Q1200 is built to last and delivers big flavor in a small package.
✅ Best for: Gas grill lovers who want reliability, portability, and Weber’s trusted durability.
2. Traeger Ranger Portable Pellet Grill – Best for Flavor Enthusiasts
For BBQ lovers who don’t want to compromise on smoke flavor, the Traeger Ranger is the ultimate portable pellet grill.
Key Features:
- Digital Arc Controller with precise temp control (5° increments)
- 184 sq. in. cooking area
- Max temp: 450°F
- Includes a cast-iron griddle for steaks, bacon, or breakfast
- Rugged latches for transport
The Ranger runs on electricity and hardwood pellets, making it a bit heavier at ~60 lbs and best suited for tailgates, RVs, or campsites with power. But for those who want that authentic wood-fired taste on the go, it’s unmatched.
✅ Best for: True BBQ enthusiasts who want wood-smoked flavor anywhere.
3. Cuisinart CGG-306 Chef’s Style Stainless Tabletop Grill – Best Tabletop Gas Grill
Compact, sleek, and powerful, the Cuisinart CGG-306 is ideal for fast grilling at campsites, patios, or beach trips.
Key Features:
- Two stainless steel burners, 10,000 BTUs each (20,000 total)
- 275 sq. in. cooking surface
- Built-in thermometer + twist-start ignition
- Stainless steel body for easy cleanup
- Lightweight with carrying handle
What makes this grill shine is the quick setup—unfold the legs, connect your propane, and you’re ready in minutes. With high heat and decent space, it’s perfect for small families or groups.
✅ Best for: Fast, easy gas grilling with minimal cleanup.
4. Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill – Best Portable Charcoal Grill
For charcoal purists, the Weber Jumbo Joe is a portable version of Weber’s classic kettle grill.
Key Features:
- 18-inch cooking grate (fits ~8 burgers)
- Lightweight (18 lbs) and easy to transport
- Porcelain-enameled bowl/lid for consistent heat
- Tuck-N-Carry lid lock doubles as a holder
- Built-in ash catcher for easy cleanup
Compact but powerful, the Jumbo Joe delivers authentic charcoal flavor without the bulk of a full-sized kettle grill. Perfect for park cookouts, beach BBQs, or tailgating.
✅ Best for: Charcoal grill fans who want portability without losing that smoky taste.
5. Char-Broil Portable Convective 1-Burner Gas Grill – Best Budget Portable Grill
If you want an affordable, no-frills portable grill, the Char-Broil Convective delivers great value.
Key Features:
- 11,000 BTUs of heat output
- 190 sq. in. cooking space
- Foldable legs + durable steel frame
- Push-button ignition
- Lightweight design for travel
While it’s not as advanced as the Weber Q1200, it’s a solid entry-level grill for casual BBQs, camping, or small gatherings.
✅ Best for: Budget-conscious grillers who want a reliable gas option.
🛒 Things to Consider Before Buying a Portable Grill
Before choosing the best portable grill, keep these factors in mind:
1. Fuel Type – Gas offers convenience, charcoal brings smoky flavor, and pellet grills provide versatility but need power. Choose based on where you’ll grill most.
2. Cooking Area – Think about how many people you usually cook for. 180–200 sq. in. is good for 2–4 people, while 250+ sq. in. handles larger groups.
3. Portability & Weight – Lighter models are easier to carry, but heavier grills often have better heat retention and durability.
4. Heat Output – BTUs for gas grills, or temperature range for pellet/charcoal. Make sure your grill can sear steaks as well as cook low-and-slow.
5. Durability & Build Quality – Stainless steel and porcelain-coated grates hold up best over time.
6. Budget – Higher-end models like Weber and Traeger bring premium features, but budget-friendly options like Char-Broil or Cuisinart still get the job done.
Final Thoughts
The best portable grill for you depends on your cooking style.
- For all-around performance → Weber Q1200
- For smoky BBQ flavor → Traeger Ranger
- For quick tabletop grilling → Cuisinart CGG-306
- For authentic charcoal taste → Weber Jumbo Joe
- For budget grilling → Char-Broil Portable Convective
No matter your choice, these grills prove that big flavor can come in small packages. From backyard to campsite, your next BBQ adventure starts here.