5 Best Small Gas Grills 2021 Reviews

Best Small Gas Grills. If you do not know what to choose when it comes to buying a small gas grill, then there are essential factors that you must consider. While all the small gas grills are certainly good choices, choosing the best small gas grills is a personal decision.

Do you want plenty of cooking surfaces with limited space? Do you want a natural gas grill, or do you want a portable gas grill?

Ask yourself this: what kind of cooking is your small gas grill intended for? Are they for flipping burgers, flipping hotdogs, roasting chicken, or smoking brisket?

How much power and heat do you need? BTUs (British Thermal Units) is an indicator that matters.

Almost all small gas grills reach the same maximum temperature between 500 to 550 degrees Fahrenheit.


Benefits of a small gas grill

One of the most important benefits of a gas grill is that you do not need charcoal to ignite the grill. This is the reason why most people who use gas grill enjoy them for convenience.

People can come home or bring along to tailgating or camping, turn it on, and the gas grill is ready to go. Here are some benefits you can get from small gas grills:

  • Gas grills are cheaper than charcoal grills
  • The gas grills are easy to use and simple
  • Gas grills provide moisture to any meat
  • These gas grills can run endlessly when connected to a gas line
  • They are easier to clean than charcoal grills

1. Small group gathering

If you own a large grill, it is a big disadvantage due to its size. If you want to gather a group of friends or cooking dinner for two people, you will end up wasting a lot of gas. That would be very expensive over the long-term.

The small gas grill is ideal if you have limited outdoor space, or living in apartments. A larger grill might not be practical, you can set a small gas grill up on a table. You will experience the joy of having a barbecue dinner with a small group of friends and family.

2. Great portability

You can categorize grilling as a social activity. It is the perfect time to connect with your family and friends sharing a meal together. If you decide to do the grilling outdoor, the bigger the grill will be harder to move. Some larger models require you to attach a gas line to the grill.

With a small gas grill, it will be easier to transport. Some small grills come with a carry case. The carry case can reduce the risk of being damaged to the vehicle as you transport them. You can take it with you when you are camping, without taking a lot of equipment to the campsite.

3. Cheaper

They are cheaper to purchase and run than a larger grill. Due to their more compact size, they take a lot fewer materials to build. A small gas grill requires less fuel to high temperatures. The less fuel means you save money on the operating costs. The shipping cost could be lower due to its lower weight.

4. Easy to setup

Selecting a smaller grill will make it easier to set-up and start grilling and cooking. You can set it up in five to ten minutes. After that, you can fire it up. Since the hot plate is smaller compared to a larger grill, the temperature gets high faster. Now, you do not have to wait too long to get cooking.

5. Easy to store

Due to its compact size, it will be easier to store your grill. Some grills come with a protective cover. The grill will not get covered by dust. This cover will make it easier to pack when you are planning to go outdoor.

6. Many selections

There are dozens and dozens of small gas grills available in the market today. You can get one that will suit your requirements. Some people can select cheaper models. Others want to select the type of features that the grill offers. There are also charcoal and gas, depending on which one you want to buy.


Best choices for small gas grills

  1. Coleman RoadTrip 285
  2. Weber 44010001 Spirit II E-210 2-Burner Liquid Propane Grill
  3. Weber Q1000 Liquid Propane Grill
  4. Char-Broil Classic 280 Liquid Propane Gas Grill
  5. Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 Gas Grill
Model Power Price Rating
Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill 20,000 BTU $$$ 4.6
Weber 44010001 Spirit II E-210 2-Burner Liquid Propane Grill 26,500 BTU $$$ 4.7
Weber Q1000 Liquid Propane Grill – Small Gas Grill 12,000 BTU $$ 4.8
Char-Broil Classic 280 2-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Grill 8,000 BTU $$ 4.3
Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 Portable TRU-Infrared Liquid Propane Gas Grill 9,500 BTU $$ 4.3

Best small gas grills reviews

1. Coleman RoadTrip 285

Best small gas grills Coleman RoadTrip 285
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  • You can move this small gas grill by Coleman because it is the perfect portable grill. You can use this small gas grill for boating, tailgating, picnicking, and camping with your family. If you have only a small outdoor patio space, this small gas grill is great, dependable, and reliable. The grill is crafted to withstand any grilling trips.
  • The Coleman RoadTrip 285 can be collapsible to fit in most car trunks, and the stainless steel casing keeps it sturdy. The cooking area is 285 square inches, which is more significant than its slim profile. The small gas grill can pump 20,000 BTUs of power over its three burners. The temperature can go between 350 to 700 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • The cooking grates are porcelain-coated, so you can easily clean and do the maintenance. If you want to start the small gas grill, all you have to do is push a button, and the grill is ready to go without needing a match to ignite. The grill is also mess-free with its removable grease tray to clean it up fast. The easy clean-up will make you have a good time grilling without spending time maintaining your grill.
  • At the same time, you can grill a pile of hot dogs for lunch. You can pop upside tables to make prep for any meal. The small gas grill can be assembled quickly. You can collapse and roll behind them on the built-in casters before unloading and loading. With its high-quality built, durability, and affordable price under $300, this is an excellent option for a small and portable grill for the budget.
  • Sturdy wheels and quick-fold legs
  • Up to 20,000 total BTUs
  • Push-button ignition
  • Integrated design
  • Precise temperature control
  • Improved burner technology
  • 3 adjustable burners
Grill Size 30.25 x 19.19 x 16.13 inches
Grilling Area 285 sq. inches
Ignition Push button
Power source Propane
Burners 3 adjustable burners

2. Weber 44010001 Spirit II E-210 2-Burner Liquid Propane Grill

Best small gas grills
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  • The Spirit II Weber small gas grill is delivered in a smaller package with high-level experience. The E210 Spirit can deliver 26,500 BTUs. You can be sure to get an evenly distributed heat to every inch with 450 square inches of cooking space. For maximum result, there is a 90-inch warming rack.
  • The small gas grill comes with a Gs4 grilling system, with two burners. The burners made from stainless steel, and high-quality tubes. These tubes will not rust quickly, damage easily, and leak gas. They are crafted to be durable, with no effects of rust agents.
  • There is also a drop-down table on both sides, so you can have more space to layout your food. You can easily fold it down for easy storage. If you want to hang your utensils such as knives, spatulas, and pans, you can hang them on the three sturdy hooks.
  • Other features include the Flavorizer bar system, porcelain-coated cooking grates for quick cleaning, and the infinity electronic ignition system. You can cook your hotdogs, burger, steaks, ribs, chicken breasts quickly and evenly. You can not find cold spots and delivers an excellent sear. When you start the grill, it will take about 10 minutes to heat up.
  • Cast-iron cooking grates
  • Powerful GS4 grilling system
  • Stainless steel heat deflector
  • Fold-down left side table
  • Built-in lid thermometer
  • Porcelain-enameled lid
  • 26,500 BTUs
Grill Size 48 x 26 x 57 inches
Grilling Area 450 sq. inches
Ignition Infinity Ignition
Power source Propane
Burners 2 burners

3. Weber Q1000 Liquid Propane Grill

Weber Q1000 Liquid Propane Grill
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  • With a dimension of 14.5H x 27W x 16.5D inches, the Weber Q1000 Liquid Propane Grill is the perfect option for a small gas grill. This small gas grill from Weber is mighty, despite being a single-burner grill, and more compact. With the high-quality result it can achieve, Weber Q1000 lives up to the name.
  • There is a single 12,000 BTU made from stainless steel burner. The Weber small gas grill has 189 square inches of cooking space. Other features including an easy-start ignition system, porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates, and a cast aluminum lid. The small gas grill must be preheated with the burner for ten to fifteen minutes. It is a tabletop grill or stationary grill.
  • Stainless steel burner
  • Infinite control burner valve settings
  • Push-button ignition
  • Cast aluminum lid and body
  • Porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates
  • 8,500 BTU-per-hour
Grill Size 20.5 x 27 x 23.5 inches
Grilling Area 189 sq. inches
Ignition Push button
Power source Liquid Propane
Burners 1 stainless steel burner

4. Char-Broil Classic 280 Liquid Propane Gas Grill

Char-Broil Classic 280 Liquid Propane Gas Grill
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  • If you are looking for a cheap portable gas grill, this Char-Broil Classic 280 2-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Grill is a great contender. You can choose between the grill with or without the optional side burner.
  • The cooking space of this cheap portable gas grill is 280 square inches with two burners. Those burners can deliver 8,000 BTUs of power.
  • If you are going to start the grill, all you have to do is push the start ignition button with porcelain-coated grates. The grate can be cleaned easily. You can prep your work on the two side shelves and for storage.
  • Porcelain-coated grates
  • Metal side shelves
  • Firebox stand up to weather and the elements
  • Porcelain-coated steel lid
  • Two stainless steel in-line burners
  • 8,000 BTU side burner
Grill Size 24.1 x 45.6 x 41.9 inches
Grilling Area 280 sq. inches
Ignition Piezo ignition system
Power source Liquid Propane
Burners 2 stainless steel burners

5. Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 Gas Grill

Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 Gas Grill
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  • This Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 Portable TRU-Infrared Liquid Propane Gas Grill can be used to cook up a burger or steak on holidays and during the weekend. This is a cheap tabletop grill that can be movable. The small gas grill is lightweight (weighs less than 20 pounds) at 23.70 x 15.00 x 13.60 inches. You can carry it for tailgating, camping, and road trips.
  • It is one of the best portable gas grills for tailgating. The Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 features a cast-aluminum firebox. The frame can withstand the high impact that comes with legs and a handle. One of its great features is the TRU-infrared cooking system crafted to eliminate flare-ups.
  • You can cook your burger or steak in the 200 square inches cooking space. There is a small stainless steel temperature gauge attached to the lid. You do not need matches because to start the small gas grill, and you just push the ignition button. This tailgating grill provides a 9,500 BTU main burner.
  • The tailgating grill takes 1 pound propane tanks with possible conversion to a 20 pound tank when needed. The small gas grill is crafted to be convenient and sturdy. You can take the grill for traveling and adventure without worry.
  • Easy to carry
  • No flare-up
  • High-impact frame
  • Temp gauge
  • Dual stainless steel latches
  • Cast aluminum firebox and lid
  • 9,500 BTUs
Grill Size 23.7 x 15.7 x 13.6 inches
Grilling Area 200 sq. inches
Ignition Push button
Power source Liquid Propane
Burners 1 burner

How to Choose The Right Small Gas Grills

1. The price

It would be wise and recommended to have an awareness of the price tag in regards to your budget. A small gas grill can vary in price, ranging from above $50 at the lowest to well over $200.

If your budget is at the bottom end, then you better off considering a quality small charcoal grill instead, because they tend to retail for less. You need to be aware that a charcoal grill will cost more to run and will not last compared to a gas grill.

The best gas grills could last you as long as ten years with extra maintenance. However, there is no warranty provided for this long by any brand.

The warranty is a good sign of quality and build. It is good to keep in mind that inexpensive product is usually a sign of inferior quality.


2. Frequency of use

How often you use a gas grill is another factor that you need to consider. Gas grills tend to be more pricey than charcoal grills.

But gas grills will provide savings for you in the long run if you use your gas grill often. Propane gas tanks last for a long time.


3. The area size

The size of your gas grill must be proportionate to the size of your cooking area. Placing a large gas grill in a small garden could make it feel very crowded.

With enough space, your guests can quickly move around when you host garden barbecue parties. You may need to consider the kinds of food you are grilling on your grill.

Getting a small gas grill may give you enough room to spare for your guests, but you can not cook 20 burger patties all at once.


4. Construction and durability

The construction is fundamental if you want your gas grill to last. The vital element is that the gas grill comes pre-assembled and welded together.

If the gas grill has fewer parts, you only need to do less assembly. This is better because it will help reduce the chances of rust and any problems ahead of time.

The most durable material for the gas grill is stainless steel and cast aluminum. So it is good to look for a grill made from high-grade steel with porcelain-enamel coating.

This material also helps the even heat distribution across the grilling grate. An inferior frame like painted steel frames will rust.

The most crucial factor is the care of your gas grill. Your gas grill must be kept clean and kept covered when not in use.


5. Fuel type

Gas grills can run using natural gas and propane gas. Natural gas needs a line, and the price is lower in the long run.

Propane gas comes in a cylinder. You have to carry your fuel with you, and that makes it portable.

It is crucial to know between the two fuel sources. If you purchase a propane gas grill, it cannot operate on natural gas.

A dual-fuel gas grill needs a conversion kit which retails for around $50.


6. Parts and warranty

Parts and repair are important if you are considering purchasing a gas grill. This is because parts have to be replaced with wear and tear over time. They need to be replaced when something might not be working properly.

It would be a good idea to make sure that the gas grill brand has an authorized service center nearby. If something goes wrong with your small gas grill, it is very easy to call them to fix your gas grill right away.

Gas grills sold today on the market come with a warranty. The duration and the coverage of the warranty vary depending on the brand and its model. You are recommended to check the warranty.


Main components of a gas grill

1. Burners

The burner is the main source of heat to cook meat or shrimp. Burners are commonly made of

  • stainless steel
  • cast iron or porcelain-coated
  • aluminized steel

Burners are hollow with outlet ports and gas inlet holes. There is a separate control for each inlet located on the control panel. Small gas grills usually only have just one burner. Dual burners usually have two gas inlets and two control knobs. One burner means having one inlet and one control. The typical type of gas grill burners is called the ‘H’ burners. Another burner’s shape is Oval. Others are ‘Figure 8’, ‘Bowtie’ and ‘Bar’ burners.

Some expensive models have a separate burner for each control with three or four burners. These can be referred to as “Rail”, “Tube”, “Pipe” burners. A 3 pipe burners gas grill run from the front to the back of the grill (a left burner, center burner, and right burner). This will allow you to have the flexibility to use any of the three.

Burners are mounted at the bottom of the grill. These burners can rest directly on the grill casting. Venturi tubes are where the gas is supplied. These tubes can be removable or permanently mounted to the burner. There is a gas valve connected to the control knob located on the front of the grill. When you turn the knob, the valve opens. The gas starts flowing through the venturi tube and into the burner.

Burners are the first component to wear out. Since burners operate at high temperatures (300 to 650 degrees Fahrenheit) and get dripping of meat moisture and acid. The lifetime of a small gas grill burner can operate for one to five years with average usage. You can not work efficiently when the burner becomes corroded. Gas can escape through the corroded areas.

When choosing anreplacement burner, you must look at these requirements:

  1. The burner must physically fit in your grill
  2. It must rest evenly at the bottom of your grill
  3. The new replacement burner must close in size to the original burner
  4. Gas can be supplied to the burner

2. Valves

The valve is the source of gas for the burner. There are dual valves and single valves. The output is through a specific size that relates to the type of gas being used. Liquid propane or NG natural gas.

Valves can become rusted or wear out. It would be a struggle operating the grill. The only solution is to replace these valves that match exactly the original valves. Many gas grills are disposed of when valves fail, due to a lack of available replacements.

3. Rock grates

Rock grates are located above the burner. They are crafted to hold ceramic briquettes or lava rock. They protect the burner from drippings, and they disperse the heat from the burner more evenly.

Rock grates are constructed of carbon steel. A rocking grate is useful until it rusts and no longer holds rock.

4. Cooking grids

Cooking grids or cooking grates, are the surface in a grill. They are made of:

  • Stainless steel. Cooking grates made of steel are expensive, durable, and come with a lifetime warranty
  • Porcelain-coated cast iron. The cooking grates are a thick and excellent choice for searing meat
  • Porcelain-coated steel. Not good for searing
  • Cast Iron. For charcoal grills
  • Chrome-plated steel. Cheaper and shortest-lasting material

Protective coating will wear off and the metal will rust. It is time for a new grid.

5. Temperature Gauge

A temperature gauge is a device used to indicate the temperature inside your grill being monitored. The display can be a digital readout, an analog dial, and an analog range.

6. Grease tray

Grease trays collect excess drippings and grease as result of cooking process. Empty the grease tray to avoid overflowing.

7. Igniter

These components are designed to make lighting your small gas grill easier. It is mounted not far from burner tubes. It uses electricity to generate a spark. The spark ignites the propane or natural gas flowing from burner tubes.

8. Warming rack

You can use warming rack to keep cooked meat or other food warm while freeing up space for other food. Warming rack can also be used for warming buns.


Common problems of a gas grill

1. Low temperature and low flame

A low flame and low temperature on a gas grill are caused by a dirty burner or dirty venturi tubes. Another cause might be the fuel line regulator limit the amount of gas and will generate low temperature.

Here is what you can do:

  • Turn off the LP tank valve
  • Make sure the to run off the grill knobs
  • Detach the regulator and the hose
  • Start opening the hood of the grill
  • Open all control knobs to release gas
  • Close the control knobs
  • Reconnect the regulator and hose to the tank.
  • Crack the tank knob and then slowly turn the knob
  • Ignite the small gas grill according to the manual instruction
  • You should see that the gas grill should heat up as normal
  • If the heat up is still not normal, you should replace the regulator and the hose

2. Yellow or orange flame

It would be better to grill with blue with yellow tips flame. If not, there should be an obstruction in the burner. There may not be a good mixture of air and gas. To fix the problem, check the burner inlet for obstruction.

The air adjustment is located at the bottom burner or at the base of the tubes. You can adjust the air shutter by doing the following:

  • Loosen a screw by the metal shutter, at the end of the burner. This will allow the shutter to slide open or closed.
  • Ignite the small gas grill to find out if the flame pattern is blue with yellow tips
  • Once the flame is blue, tighten the screw

If the small gas grill is set for natural gas but you use propane gas, it causes too much gas to come from the orifice nozzle and can produce a yellow flame.

3. The burner bows out

  • Check for any clogged holes inside the burner
  • The burner must be installed properly over the orifice
  • The air to gas ratio must be adjusted
  • Check gas supply
  • Avoid grilling by a windy area
  • Check for proper gas pressure and supply

4. Produce smokes

When you are grilling and produces smokes, it is caused by a build-up of grease on your small gas grill. All you have to do is to clean and preheat the grill for twenty minutes to burn off the residue.

5. The small gas grill will not light

The most common cause was being the spark generator. You can try to light the small gas grill manually. If the grill ignites, you should replace the ignition system.

Try to lit the burner with a match. If it does not ignite, check for any cracks in the ceramic tube. Check also for breaks in the metal tip or look at the alignment of the metal tip on the electrode to the burner.

6. Excessive flare-up

Flare-ups can be caused by excess grease in the small gas grill. Inspect the grills burner and flame disbursement system for soft spots or any metal failure. you need to clean all the dirt in the gas grill.

  1. Check the cooking grates, clean them
  2. Inspect the heat plates for excess grease, clean or replace if necessary
  3. Check for large holes in the heat plates or burner
  4. Too many fatty meats or sauce

7. Uneven heating spots

If you experience uneven spots, this might be a blocked burner. There are ports or holes along the side of the burners that supply gas flows through to produce the flame. These ports and holes can be clogged from drippings. You can use a soft wire brush to remove this dirt from the burner to restore normal gas flow.

If the burner is totally clogged, you need to clean the burner by removing it from the grill. After removing the burner from the grill, clean the area completely with a wire brush. Just make sure you remove all the debris totally from the inside of the burner. Never use oven cleaner or detergents on your burners. These chemicals cleaning agents can cause corrosion of the metal.


Henry Kaswandi, SS, M.Kom.

I had been doing gardening for the last 18 years. I enjoy writing reviews of many products and about gardening to give better experiences and accurate information.