To determine scores in this metric, we loaded each product into vehicles, took them to picnics and campsites, and grilled gratifying culinary concoctions. When on these excursions, we took into account things like overall size, weight, construction materials, and availability of wheels, stands, or lid latches. We also evaluated how secure or not secure they were, noisiness during transport, and cleanliness on the ride home. Building an intensely hot coal bed, that can later be spread out to create individual heat zones, is a critical skill in mastering the art of charcoal grilling.
It also functioned well as a grill with good ventilation to keep the coals hot — although the cooking capacity is on the small side. The grill grates are porcelain enamel, which aids in longevity and heat retention. Even with its small form factor, the Petit Gourmet can weber genesis 2 accommodate 4 pounds of food at a time – 8 burgers or steaks, 6 chicken breasts, fish, or vegetables, which makes feeding a family or group easy. The Weber Smokey Joe 14-inch is a kettle design that features most of the features found in Weber’s larger kettle models.
Grills equipped with an accessible coupling for 1-pound liquid-propane canisters are a must. One-pound canisters are lightweight, inexpensive, and available at most hardware stores. Lugging around a 20-pound propane cylinder isn’t our idea of portability. If you wind up wanting weber q to use a larger tank, you can purchase an adapter with a Type 1 connector for a 20-pound refillable propane tank. We love how compact it is and how it can be used nearly anywhere. It has two large carrying candles and latches on either side to hold all of the pieces in place.
It also comes with a limited lifetime warranty for added peace of mind. Camryn Rabideau is a freelance writer and product tester for The Spruce Eats who’s an expert on all things grilling. She’s personally tested several grills and smokers, including our top pick for weber q a portable grill, the Weber Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill, and the splurge-worthy HitchFire Forge 15. While researching portable grills for this article, she spoke with Jess Pryles, grilling expert and author of “Hardcore Carnivore” for tips on grilling on the go.
If you want portable charcoal grilling in a truly portable package, this is the best small grill to buy. It’s only nine pounds — the lightest of any on this list — and with the fitted carrying case can be slung right over your shoulder and taken out for grilling on the go. This take-anywhere charcoal grill is probably the most portable of all the grills I tested and is perfect for campers or hikers who need a small, portable grill while on the move. While camping, you want to be able to make bacon and eggs for breakfast as easily as steaks and pork chops for dinner. This grill has a flat griddle cooking surface that’s good for grilling just about anything. You won’t get grill marks, but you will get even browning whether you’re making flapjacks or burgers.
There is an add-on cast iron coal bed ($26) that holds charcoal, but I don’t see it as necessary . While the Weber Original Kettle may have taken the top spot in CNET’s list ofbest charcoal grills, this newcomer is my pick for the best portable charcoal grill. A smart and solid build allows you to take this small grill anywhere, including on a long hike. Setup was a snap — you simply unhinge the sides and the entire thing opens up like a clamshell.