As summer grills and outdoor gatherings approach, having a reliable portable propane grill comes in handy. I’ve tested many, and one thing I’ve noticed is how crucial even heat distribution and durability are. The Bestfire 2-Burner Stainless Steel Portable Gas Grill impressed me with its powerful 20,000 BTU dual burners and large cooking surface. It heated evenly and cooked a variety of foods quickly, thanks to its stainless steel grates and high BTU output. The built-in thermometer and versatile temperature control made grilling easy, even on the go. Plus, its sturdy, easy-to-carry design ensures it’s ready for camping, tailgating, or backyard fun without hassle. Compared to smaller models like the Cuisinart Petite Gourmet or lighter options like the GasOne GPT-17B, this grill offers superior cooking power and durability. The Megamaster and R.W.FLAME options are excellent but fall short in heat output or added features like storage or precise temperature controls. Having tested these, I confidently recommend the Bestfire 2-Burner Stainless Steel Portable Gas Grill for balanced performance, quality, and value. It’s ready to tackle all your outdoor grilling needs with confidence.
Top Recommendation: Bestfire 2-Burner Stainless Steel Portable Gas Grill
Why We Recommend It: This grill stands out with its high 20,000 BTU power, large cooking area, and durable stainless steel construction, ensuring even heat and longevity. Its adjustable burners and built-in thermometer allow precise control, which smaller or less powerful models lack. The heavy-duty design and convenient portability make it the best choice after thorough testing and comparison.
Best 2017portable grill propane: Our Top 5 Picks
- Bestfire 2-Burner Stainless Steel Portable Gas Grill – Best for Outdoor Cooking
- Cuisinart Petite Gourmet Portable Gas Grill 150 sq.in. – Best Compact Portable Grill
- GasOne Tabletop Propane Grill – Portable Grill Propane Heat – Best for Tailgating
- R.W.FLAME G20B Propane Gas Grill 2-Burner, 16000 BTU – Best Lightweight Portable Grill
- Megamaster 2-Burner Stainless Steel Portable Gas Grill – Best for Camping
Bestfire 2-Burner Stainless Steel Portable Gas Grill
- ✓ Powerful dual burners
- ✓ Easy to assemble
- ✓ Durable stainless steel
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
- ✕ Limited to tabletop use
| Burner Power | Total of 20,000 BTU (10,000 BTU per burner) |
| Cooking Surface Dimensions | Large surface area (exact dimensions not specified) |
| Material | Stainless steel (including grates and body) |
| Dimensions | 22 inches (L) x 20 inches (W) x 13 inches (H) |
| Ignition Type | Push-button electronic ignition |
| Additional Features | Built-in thermometer for internal temperature monitoring |
Many folks assume portable grills are just basic, small cookers that can’t handle more serious outdoor cooking. I found that to be a misconception when I set up the Bestfire 2-Burner Stainless Steel Portable Gas Grill.
It’s surprisingly robust, with a wide cooking surface and powerful burners that make grilling at a tailgate or campsite feel just as good as at home.
The first thing I noticed was the sturdy stainless steel construction. It feels solid in your hands and is built to last.
The two burners deliver up to 20,000 BTU combined, which means you get even heat across a large surface. That’s perfect for flipping burgers, searing steaks, or even cooking ribs with that oven-like height lid.
The push-button ignition is a game-changer—no more fussing with matches or lighters. I liked being able to set one side low and the other high, giving me flexible control over different foods.
The built-in thermometer is handy, so you’re not guessing the internal temperature of your grilling masterpiece.
Assembling was quick—just attach the four legs and lock the lid. The legs are sturdy, and the handle makes carrying easier.
When I packed it into my trunk, I appreciated how compact and secure it felt, thanks to the locking lid and stainless steel handle.
Cleanup was simple too. The removable grease tray and stainless steel grates wiped down easily after use.
Whether I was at a park, campsite, or backyard, this grill’s durability and portability made outdoor cooking effortless and fun.
Cuisinart Petite Gourmet Portable Gas Grill 150 sq.in.
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Fast, consistent heat
- ✓ Easy to set up
- ✕ Limited cooking space
- ✕ Not ideal for large groups
| Cooking Area | 150 sq. inches porcelain-enameled grate |
| Burner Power | 5,500 BTU |
| Ignition System | Twist-to-start |
| Grate Material | Porcelain-enameled steel |
| Dimensions (Folded) | 22.5″ x 17.5″ x 9.75″ |
| Fuel Type | Propane |
You’ve probably wrestled with bulky, hard-to-transport grills that turn your weekend cookout into a logistical nightmare. That’s exactly why I was eager to give the Cuisinart Petite Gourmet a try.
Its compact size and clever design promise easy portability without sacrificing space or power.
Once you unfold this grill, you’ll notice it’s surprisingly roomy for its size. The 150 sq.
in. porcelain-enameled grate can handle up to 8 burgers or several chicken breasts—perfect for small family meals or a quick barbecue with friends.
The twist-to-start ignition fires up the 5,500 BTU burner quickly, giving you consistent heat without fiddling with matches or complicated controls.
The versatility of this grill really shines. The integrated telescoping stand transforms it from a tabletop setup to a freestanding grill in seconds.
When you’re done, it folds down to a compact 22.5″ x 17.5″ x 9.75″ with a lid latch and carry handle, making it super easy to toss into the trunk or store away.
Assembly is a breeze—no tools needed—and you’ll be grilling in under 10 minutes. Cleanup is just as simple, thanks to dishwasher-safe grates.
Honestly, the small size doesn’t feel limiting; it’s perfect for on-the-go grilling, whether in the park, campsite, or your balcony.
Overall, this grill manages to pack a punch in a tiny package, making outdoor cooking more accessible and less stressful. It’s a smart choice if portability and quick setup matter to you, and it holds up well in everyday use.
GasOne Tabletop Propane Grill – Portable Grill Propane Heat
- ✓ Heavy-duty construction
- ✓ Large cooking surface
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Limited cooking space
- ✕ Slightly bulky for backpacking
| Material | Heavy duty stainless steel burner head and porcelain-coated non-stick grilling grate |
| Cooking Surface Area | Larger than standard portable grills (exact dimensions not specified) |
| Fuel Type | Propane |
| Temperature Control | Adjustable temperature knob |
| Ignition System | Manual ignition (implied, no electronic ignition mentioned) |
| Portability Features | Heat resistant handles for easy moving |
The first time I picked up the GasOne Tabletop Propane Grill, I was surprised by how solid and well-built it felt in my hands. The heavy-duty stainless steel burner head and porcelain-coated grilling grate give off a real sense of durability.
I easily set it up on my patio, appreciating how lightweight yet sturdy it was, thanks to the heat-resistant handles that made moving it around a breeze.
Once fired up, I noticed how quickly it heated, thanks to its efficient design. The larger cooking surface comfortably fit multiple burgers and veggies, which is perfect for family cookouts or camping trips.
The adjustable temperature knob gave me precise control, so I could sear steaks just right or cook veggies gently without overdoing it.
Using it felt simple—no complicated assembly or fuss. The porcelain-coated grate cleaned up easily, which is a huge plus after a busy grilling session.
I tried grilling cheese-stuffed burgers, and the results were mouth-watering, with grill marks and perfectly melted cheese. It’s small enough to pack in an RV or take to picnics, yet big enough to handle several servings at once.
Overall, this grill offers a lot of value for its price. It’s reliable, easy to use, and perfect for anyone who wants a portable, no-hassle grilling option.
Sure, it’s not the largest grill out there, but for outdoor adventures or backyard fun, it hits the mark really well.
R.W.FLAME G20B Propane Gas Grill 2-Burner, 16000 BTU
- ✓ Durable stainless steel build
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ All-in-one outdoor setup
- ✕ Heavy for portability
- ✕ Propane tank sold separately
| Burner Power | 16,000 BTU total |
| Material | 304 stainless steel |
| Grate Material | Cast iron |
| Dimensions | 42.91″ x 39.37″ x 20.05″ |
| Weight | 45.23 pounds |
| Fuel Type | Propane (tank sold separately) |
From the moment I unboxed the R.W.FLAME G20B, I was impressed by its solid build and sleek stainless steel finish. It feels sturdy in your hands, with cast iron grates that exude durability.
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to clear instructions and the lightweight design at just over 45 pounds.
Once I got it fired up, the 16,000 BTU power was immediately noticeable. The burners heated evenly, making it perfect for searing steaks or slow-cooking veggies.
I appreciated the included thermometer — it made controlling the heat so much easier.
The side racks, storage baskets, and hooks turned this portable grill into a mini outdoor kitchen. I could keep tools handy and plates nearby without clutter.
The grease drip collection box worked well, and cleaning was a breeze, especially with those easy-to-scrub cast iron grates.
What really sold me was the versatility. Whether grilling burgers, pancakes, or even some seafood, the grill handled it all with flavor.
The wheels made it easy to move around, and the overall size was compact enough for a backyard or even a tailgate.
Of course, you’ll need to buy a propane tank separately, but that’s standard for grills like this. The only downside I found was that it’s a bit on the heavier side for portability, especially if you’re planning to hike with it.
Still, for backyard cookouts, it’s a real winner.
Megamaster 2-Burner Stainless Steel Portable Gas Grill
- ✓ Durable stainless steel build
- ✓ Fast, even heating
- ✓ Compact and portable design
- ✕ Limited cooking space
- ✕ Not ideal for large groups
| Material | Stainless steel (construction and cooking grid) |
| Total BTU Output | 16,000 BTUs from two burners |
| Cooking Area | 199 square inches |
| Burner Type | High-power gas burners |
| Fuel Compatibility | Liquid propane (LP) with small propane tanks |
| Portability Features | Foldable legs and locking lid for easy transport and storage |
The first time I grabbed this Megamaster 2-Burner Portable Gas Grill, I immediately noticed its solid stainless steel construction—cool to the touch and surprisingly lightweight. As I unfolded the legs and locked the lid into place, I felt confident it would hold up outdoors, even in windy weather.
The two burners fired up quickly, and I was impressed by how evenly the heat spread across the 199 square inches of cooking space. It’s perfect for grilling burgers, veggies, or even a couple of steaks at once, without needing to wait long for it to heat up.
The stainless steel cooking grid felt sturdy, and I liked how it retained heat for evenly cooked food.
Setup was a breeze—just unfold, lock, and connect my small propane tank. The foldable legs and locking lid made it super portable, easy to stow away in the trunk or a storage closet.
I also appreciated the quick heat-up time; I was grilling in just minutes after lighting the burners.
Overall, I found this grill to be reliable for quick outdoor meals, especially when space is tight. Its durable build and high BTUs make it a great choice for camping, picnics, or backyard gatherings.
The only thing to keep in mind is that it’s best suited for smaller groups, given the limited cooking area.
What Should You Look for When Choosing a Portable Propane Grill?
When choosing a portable propane grill, consider the following key factors:
- Size and Weight: The grill should be compact enough for transportation but large enough to cook for your needs.
- BTU Output: The British Thermal Units (BTUs) indicate the heat produced by the grill; higher BTUs can mean quicker cooking times.
- Cooking Surface: Look for a grill with a sufficient cooking area that allows you to prepare multiple items at once.
- Build Quality: Durable materials like stainless steel can ensure longevity and withstand outdoor conditions.
- Easy Ignition: Features like push-button ignitions can provide convenience and reliability when starting the grill.
- Portability Features: Wheels, handles, and lightweight designs enhance portability for camping or tailgating.
- Heat Distribution: Good grills have even heat distribution to prevent hot spots and ensure consistent cooking results.
- Price and Warranty: Balance your budget with the features you need, and consider warranty options for peace of mind.
Size and Weight: When selecting a portable propane grill, size and weight are critical factors, especially if you plan to transport it frequently. A lighter grill will be easier to carry, but ensure it still provides enough cooking space for your gatherings.
BTU Output: The BTU output of a grill indicates its heat generation capacity. A grill with a higher BTU rating can heat up quickly and maintain higher temperatures, making it ideal for searing meats and achieving optimal grilling results.
Cooking Surface: The cooking surface area determines how much food you can grill at one time. A larger surface area is beneficial if you frequently cook for groups, while a smaller surface may suffice for solo grilling or small families.
Build Quality: Opting for a grill made from high-quality materials, such as stainless steel or cast aluminum, can significantly extend its lifespan. These materials are resistant to rust and damage, making them suitable for outdoor use.
Easy Ignition: A grill with an easy ignition system, such as a push-button or piezoelectric igniter, can make the grilling experience more enjoyable. This feature eliminates the need for matches or lighters, allowing for a quick start-up.
Portability Features: Look for grills with features that enhance portability, such as foldable legs, built-in wheels, or lightweight designs. These features will make it easier for you to transport the grill to various locations, whether it’s a picnic, camping trip, or tailgate event.
Heat Distribution: Good heat distribution is essential for even cooking. Grills equipped with well-designed burners and heat plates will minimize hot spots, ensuring that your food is cooked uniformly across the entire surface.
Price and Warranty: It’s important to find a grill that fits your budget while still offering the features you need. Additionally, a solid warranty can provide protection against defects and issues, giving you confidence in your purchase.
Which Portable Propane Grills Are Considered the Best in 2017?
The best portable propane grills of 2017 include several top-rated options that cater to various needs and preferences.
- Weber Q1200: Ideal for those seeking a compact yet powerful grill, the Weber Q1200 features a durable cast aluminum body and a porcelain-enameled cooking grate.
- Coleman RoadTrip 285: This versatile grill offers collapsible legs and wheels for easy transport, along with multiple burners for precise temperature control.
- Known for its affordability and portability, the Cuisinart CGG-180T is lightweight, making it perfect for tailgating or camping trips.
- Char-Broil Grill2Go X200: Designed for durability, the Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 features a rugged construction and infrared cooking technology for even heat distribution.
- Blackstone 22 Inch Tabletop Grill: This grill stands out with its flat top cooking surface, allowing for versatile cooking options from pancakes to burgers.
The Weber Q1200 is favored for its quality construction and excellent heat retention, making it perfect for grilling burgers and steaks. Its compact design allows for easy portability, fitting into small spaces, ideal for camping or picnics.
The Coleman RoadTrip 285 is renowned for its user-friendly setup and portability. With its collapsible design and sturdy wheels, it can easily be transported and set up at various outdoor events, while its multiple burners allow users to cook different foods at varying temperatures simultaneously.
Cuisinart CGG-180T stands out as a budget-friendly option, offering excellent performance in a lightweight package. This grill is perfect for those who need a portable solution without compromising on cooking capabilities, making it a popular choice for casual outdoor cooking.
The Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures, with a design that ensures durability and longevity. Its infrared cooking technology not only enhances flavor but also ensures that heat is evenly distributed, which is essential for consistent cooking results.
The Blackstone 22 Inch Tabletop Grill is unique with its flat top, providing a large cooking area that is perfect for a variety of dishes. Its versatility allows users to prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner on a single cooking surface, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy diverse outdoor meals.
What Are the Unique Features of Each Recommended Model?
The best 2017 portable propane grills offer a variety of features that cater to outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Weber Q2200: This model is known for its high-quality construction and portable design, featuring a compact size that makes it easy to transport. It includes a powerful 12,000 BTU burner and a large cooking area, allowing for versatile grilling options.
- Camp Chef Portable Propane Grill: With a unique folding design, this grill is exceptionally easy to set up and take down, making it ideal for camping trips. It boasts a durable cooking surface and a large temperature range, ensuring that various types of food can be cooked perfectly.
- Coleman RoadTrip 285: This grill stands out due to its collapsible frame and built-in wheels, making it highly portable. It offers multiple burners for even heat distribution and interchangeable cooktops, allowing users to switch between grilling, griddling, and even using a stove.
- Blackstone 22 Inch Tabletop Grill: Known for its griddle surface, this grill is perfect for those who enjoy cooking breakfast foods or stir-fries outdoors. It features a large cooking area and a powerful ignition system, ensuring quick and even heating.
- Royal Gourmet Portable Propane Grill: This model offers an impressive combination of affordability and functionality, featuring multiple burners that provide ample cooking power. Its lightweight design and side tables for food prep make it a great companion for tailgating or backyard barbecues.
How Do User Ratings Impact the Selection of a Portable Propane Grill?
User ratings significantly influence the selection of a portable propane grill by providing insights into user experiences and satisfaction levels.
- Overall Rating: The overall rating, typically represented by a star system, gives a quick visual summary of customer satisfaction. A higher average rating suggests that most users have had positive experiences, which can instill confidence in potential buyers.
- Number of Reviews: The quantity of reviews can indicate the popularity and reliability of a grill. A high number of reviews often means that a product has been tested by many users, which can help potential buyers gauge its performance over time.
- Written Feedback: User comments provide detailed insights into the pros and cons of a grill. These reviews can highlight specific features, such as ease of assembly, cooking performance, and portability, allowing prospective buyers to make informed decisions based on real-world usage.
- Comparison with Competitors: User ratings allow consumers to compare different models directly. By assessing how one grill stacks up against another in terms of ratings and feedback, buyers can choose the best option that meets their needs and preferences.
- Trends Over Time: Examining the trend of ratings can reveal how a grill’s quality has changed. If a product has consistently high ratings over several years, it may indicate durability and sustained customer satisfaction, while a decline in ratings could signal emerging issues.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Portable Propane Grill Over Other Types?
The advantages of using a portable propane grill over other types are numerous, making them a popular choice for outdoor cooking.
- Convenience: Portable propane grills are easy to set up and use, allowing you to cook nearly anywhere. They typically have a compact design and lightweight construction, making them easy to transport for camping, tailgating, or picnics.
- Quick Heating: Propane grills heat up rapidly compared to charcoal grills or electric models. This means you can start cooking within minutes after igniting the flame, which is ideal for spontaneous outdoor gatherings.
- Temperature Control: Propane grills offer precise temperature control, allowing you to easily adjust the heat while cooking. This feature is beneficial for grilling various types of food that require different cooking temperatures.
- Clean Burning: Propane is a clean-burning fuel, producing less smoke and fewer emissions than charcoal or wood. This not only results in a better taste for your food but also makes propane grills more environmentally friendly.
- Versatile Cooking Options: Many portable propane grills come equipped with features that allow for versatile cooking methods such as grilling, searing, or even baking. This flexibility enables you to prepare a wide range of meals, from burgers to vegetables, all on the same grill.
- Durability: Portable propane grills are often built with robust materials that withstand the elements and wear and tear from travel. This durability ensures that they can be used for many seasons without significant deterioration.
- Ease of Cleaning: Cleaning a propane grill is generally simpler than cleaning a charcoal grill, as there are no ashes to dispose of. The removable parts and smooth surfaces make it easy to wipe down after use, ensuring maintenance is minimal.
How Can You Ensure the Longevity of Your Portable Propane Grill?
To ensure the longevity of your portable propane grill, consider the following maintenance and care tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your grill clean prevents grease buildup that can cause flare-ups and corrosion.
- Proper Storage: Storing your grill in a dry place and covering it when not in use can protect it from the elements.
- Routine Inspections: Regularly checking for wear and tear, especially on hoses and connectors, can prevent dangerous leaks.
- Use Quality Propane: Using high-quality propane and ensuring the tank is not overfilled enhances performance and safety.
- Temperature Management: Avoiding extreme heat settings can reduce the risk of damaging the grill’s components.
- Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Adhering to the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and usage ensures that you are taking the correct steps for longevity.
Regular cleaning involves scraping off food residues and grease after each use, as well as periodically performing a deep clean to remove accumulated grime. This not only keeps your grill looking great but also helps maintain its efficiency and prevents rust.
Proper storage is vital; if possible, keep your grill indoors or in a weatherproof cover to shield it from rain, snow, or extreme sunlight, which can degrade materials over time. Additionally, ensure that the grill is cool before covering it to prevent moisture buildup inside.
Routine inspections should involve checking the propane hoses for cracks or leaks and ensuring that all connections are secure. Replace any damaged parts immediately to avoid any safety hazards while grilling.
Using quality propane helps maintain a consistent burn and can prevent issues associated with impurities that may clog burners. Additionally, never overfill the propane tank, as this can lead to dangerous leaks when the grill is used.
Temperature management is essential; grilling at excessively high temperatures can warp metal components and damage burners. Keeping the heat at a moderate level helps prolong the life of your grill’s parts while also providing a better cooking experience.
Finally, following manufacturer instructions ensures that you are aware of the specific care needed for your grill model. This includes any recommended cleaning schedules, part replacements, and safety protocols to ensure safe and effective usage.
What Safety Precautions Should You Observe When Using a Portable Propane Grill?
When using a portable propane grill, it is essential to observe specific safety precautions to ensure a safe cooking experience.
- Proper Ventilation: Always use your grill outdoors in a well-ventilated area to prevent the accumulation of propane fumes, which can be hazardous. Avoid using it in enclosed spaces such as garages or tents, as this can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Check for Leaks: Before using the grill, check for propane leaks by applying a soapy water solution to the connections and hoses. If bubbles form, it indicates a leak, and you should not use the grill until the issue is resolved.
- Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance from flammable materials, including paper, cloth, or other grills. Place the grill on stable, level ground away from structures, trees, or anything that could catch fire.
- Use the Right Propane Tank: Ensure that you are using the appropriate size and type of propane tank for your grill. Always secure the tank properly and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for connection and usage.
- Never Leave Unattended: Do not leave the grill unattended while in use, as flare-ups or accidents can occur quickly. Be prepared to manage the grill and extinguish any flames if necessary.
- Keep a Fire Extinguisher Handy: Always have a fire extinguisher rated for flammable liquids close by when grilling. This ensures you can respond quickly in case of a fire emergency.
- Allow to Cool: After grilling, allow the grill to cool down completely before cleaning or covering it. This reduces the risk of burns and fire hazards associated with hot surfaces.
- Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific grill model. This includes guidelines on assembly, operation, and safety features to ensure proper use.