To find the best propane grills, we recommend you look for a high-performance propane/infrared hybrid grills with main cooking surfaces of at least 225 square inches and heat outputs of no less than 11,000 BTUs per hour, which are designed for safe use and handling in enclosed outdoor and wooded areas. We also recommend you look for features like porcelain-coated cast-iron cooking grates for higher heat output, heat retention, easier cleaning, and convenience features like locking caster wheels, tool hooks, and warming racks.
After analyzing hundreds of reviews amongst a multitude of products with varying price points and features, we’ve determined that the Weber Q1200 is the best propane grill you can buy on the market today. Keep reading about this and our other top picks to learn more about the best grills available.
Top 10 Best Propane Grills
#1 Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Camping Grill
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: A lightweight but durable performer with precise heating controls, safety-minded design, and super easy-to-clean modularity at an excellent value for a great all-around choice.
- 8500 BTU-per-hour
- 189 square-inch cooking surface
- Glass-reinforced nylon frame
- Brass components, not BPA-free
The Weber Q1200 is a liquid propane camping grill that cooks with up to 8500 BTUs per hour for easy searing and higher temperature cooking. Its 189 square-inch cooking surface consists of Porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates while its cast aluminum lid and body are lightweight and durable, with a glass-reinforced nylon frame that helps keep it cooler during use.
Design features like its fold-out side working surfaces, easy start ignition, and infinite control burner valve make it even easier to use and more convenient for preparing food and controlling heat, but its brass components aren’t BPA-free, which may be an issue for some. Regardless, it’s a top performer that’s easy to use, easy to fold up and store, and burns hot for excellent grilling and searing. It’s a great option for anyone who has been looking at the best infrared grills as well.
#2 Blackstone 1554 Propane Grill
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: 4 independently adjustable heat zones for versatility, heavy locking caster wheels, push-button ignition, and a large cooking area for a high-performing, easy-to-use semi-mobile option.
- 60,000 BTUs per hour
- Long-lasting rolled steel cooking surface
- Glass-reinforced nylon frame
- Open lidless design is slightly less safe than some models
The Blackstone 1554 is a semi-mobile mid-sized liquid propane grill with four easy-start burners putting out 60,000 BTUs per hour on a removable rolled steel cooking surface. The rolled steel construction of its cooking surface increases heat retention for high maximum surface heat and consistent cooking every time. Its removable griddle top makes for easier cleaning, and its four independently-controlled burners allow for precise control over multiple cooking areas simultaneously.
Its pared-down design allows for high ease of use, but it’s significantly less feature-rich than some similar models. However, its power and overall performance, generous and easy to clean cooking surface, and a good amount of mobility due to its fairly lightweight construction and locking wheels make it a great choice for most BBQ enthusiasts. If heat retention is a big factor in your purchasing decisions you may also want to look at the best kamado grills.
#3 Char-Broil Performance Series Propane Grill
Award: BEST COMPACT DESIGN
WHY WE LIKE IT: Cast-iron grates on both main and side cooking surfaces for high performance and ease of cleaning, with convenience features and mobility for a professional-grade option for small backyards and small functions.
- Electronic push-button ignition
- 24,000-BTUs per hour
- Large Undercarriage storage
- Smaller main cooking area than some similar models
Unlike the Char-Broil Classic 280, the Char-Broil Performance Series is a smaller mid-size 2-burner gas grill that outputs 24,000 BTUs per hour. It offers 300 square inches of cooking surface on its main grill and an additional 100 square inches on its side burner, both constructed with porcelain-coated cast iron for high heat retention and easy cleaning. Easy start push-button ignition, 4 locking caster wheels, a built-in thermostat on its heavy-duty steel lid, and two foldable side tables for food prep add even more convenience and mobility.
The smaller, more compact design comes with a slightly smaller main cooking area than some similar models in class, though there’s still enough total cooking surface area to easily provide for smaller events. But add its mobility, foldable parts, storage area, good performance, and modest price point, it’s a reliable and powerful option for chefs looking to entertain smaller groups and users who have smaller backyards and patios or who need a model that’s easily and quickly stored when not in use. We also recommend looking at the best electrical grills if your outdoor space is limited.
#4 Weber Spirit E-210 Propane Grill
Award: BEST FUEL EFFICIENCY
WHY WE LIKE IT: A feature-rich but compact and easy-to-use high-performance grill with storage hooks, a large warming rack, and extra heat-retention design features for greater fuel efficiency.
- 450 square inches of cooking surface
- Heat retaining porcelain-coated steel lid
- Viewable fuel line indicator
- Higher learning curve than some models
The Weber Spirit E-210 is a heavy-duty but fairly lightweight and compact smaller mid-size propane grill designed for professional-level results in a model that’s easier to store and move than many models with comparable features and power. Its porcelain-enameled steel lid provides extra heat retention for more consistent cooking and more fuel efficiency and includes a built-in viewable thermostat. Weber’s patented porcelain-enameled Flavorizer bar technology ensures restaurant-level results every time.
Its feature-rich, high-tech design means it’s got a slightly higher learning curve than some similar models. However, its exceptional performance, Weber’s patented technologies, and convenience features like built-in tool hooks, a generous warming rack, folding side prep tables, and locking caster wheels make it an excellent choice for small to midsize patios and BBQ areas. If propane isn’t a deal-breaker, you might also like our best natural gas grills buying guide.
#5 Weber Spirit II E-310 l Propane Grill
Award: BEST HIGH TECH
WHY WE LIKE IT: Porcelain-enameled, cast-iron cooking grates, a built-in grease trap, and a very generous cooking area for its compact size, powered by patented GS4 grilling tech.
- 529 square inches of heating space
- High precision infinity ignition
- Easy-to-read fuel gauge
- Higher price point than many similar models
The Weber Spirit II E-310 is a mid-large sized liquid propane grill with a high-performance design that includes Weber’s GS4 grilling system with improved infinity ignition, cast-iron porcelain-coated cooking grates, porcelain-enameled Glamorizer Bars, and an easy-clean grease management system. Its 529 square inches of cooking space are powered by 30,000 BTUs per hour, with additional convenience features like an easy-view fuel gauge, folding side tables for food prep, and 6 tool hooks.
Its performance and host of features come at a higher price point than many similar models, but its professional results and tank-like construction more than justify it. With its feature-rich design, good mobility with its heavy-duty caster wheels and relatively light build, and the same advanced cooking technology found in the best Weber grills, it’s a good value even for its higher cost. If you also want to smoke meats, check out our best pellet smokers for options that have both smoking and grilling capabilities.
#6 Coleman Gas 225 Propane Grill
Award: BEST EASE OF USE
WHY WE LIKE IT: Ultra-compact, lightweight build perfect for packing in cars for camping trips, and an exceptionally user-friendly, simple design with modern features like push-button ignition and switchable cooking surfaces.
- Simple push-button ignition
- Switchable cast-iron and griddle surfaces
- Precise Temperature Control
- Underpowered compared to some models
The Coleman Roadtrip 225 is an ultra-compact and lightweight propane grill that uses 1lb propane tanks. Its 3 adjustable burners produce 11,000 total BTUs of cooking power, which is less than many models available, though still enough for good performance at most standard grilling purposes. It features a cast iron cooking grate and steel griddle, adding more cooking options like pancakes and scrambled eggs and making for easier cleaning.
For its size, its 225 square inch total cooking area is fairly generous and allows for preparing enough food for small camping groups easily. Folding legs on heavy-duty wheels, easy push-button ignition, and two different adjustable zones round out a perfect option for camping with added versatility compared to other portable models. It’s a great option for anyone looking for the best flat-top grills with more versatility.
#7 Coleman RoadTrip 285 Propane Grill
Award: BEST MOBILITY
WHY WE LIKE IT: Great performance for searing with good heat retention and plenty of control per burner in a clever folding suitcase-like wheeled design for high mobility and flexible placement anywhere.
- 3 adjustable burners
- 20,000 total BTUs of cooking power
- Precise temperature control
- High price point compared to some models in class
- Quite heavy at 56lbs compared to similar models
The Coleman Roadtrip is a high-performance camping grill that uses 1lb propane cartridges and has 3 adjustable burners that produce 20,000 total BTUs of cooking power. Each burner features a dedicated precision valve for an impressive level of control for a compact portable grill. Fold-up legs with built-in heavy-duty wheels make it easy to pack in cars and add mobility when in use.
Related: Have a look at the best portable grills.
At 56lbs, it’s considerably heavier than many in its class, and it comes at a higher price point than many other portable camping grills. However, its mobility and storage features, its high-heat, high-performance design, and a high degree of control it offers over your grilling, along with ease of use features like push-button ignition and a generous 285 square inch grilling area more than justifies it. If you’ve got a designated outdoor kitchen space, you can also consider one of the best built-in grills.
#8 Weber Summit S-470 Propane Grill
Award: BEST PERFORMANCE
WHY WE LIKE IT: Improved burner tech for more precise heat control, super hot grilling power for great sears on steaks, an exceptionally generous primary cooking area, and four extra dedicated-purpose side burners for an all-in-one professional option.
- 48,000 BTUs
- 5 different dedicated cooking surfaces
- Serves 8-10 people
- Very high price point compared to some
The Weber Summit S-470 is a large propane grill featuring 580 square inches of cooking area on 9mm stainless steel grates using Weber’s patented Flavorizer technology for consistent professional results. It outputs up to 48,000 BTUs per hour with 4 stainless steel main burners using Weber’s Snap-Jet individual burner ignition system and can serve 8-10 people at a time.
Easy to use front-mounted controls, a side burner, an ultra-hot sear station burner, a smoker burner, and a rear-mounted infrared rotisserie burner add exceptional versatility to its high performance, though its exceptional performance, advanced features, and generous cooking area come at a higher price point than many models in its class. It’s not the practical choice for a casual BBQer, but for serious grillmasters looking for a propane option, it’s definitely a top choice. If you want something with a rotisserie option, our best rotisserie grills guide has several great options.
#9 Cuisinart CGG-180T Propane Grill
Award: BEST FOR CAMPING
WHY WE LIKE IT: A high-performance, compact, lightweight grill great for tabletop backyard grilling as well as camping and beach days, with plenty of modern features and a great look to compliment any dining layout.
- Cooks 8 burgers simultaneously
- Even-heating porcelain enamel grate
- Super light at 13lbs
- Less powerful than some other portable options
The Cuisinart CGG-180T is a super light, compact, easy to use tabletop propane grill with an attractive, modern, but colorful look and porcelain enamel grates for even heating across the entire cooking area. It features a generous-for-its-size 145-square-inch cooking area that’s capable of grilling up to 8 burgers or small steaks simultaneously, handy, sturdy foldout legs, and a large, comfortable carrying handle that stays cool during use.
Outputting a maximum of 5500 BTUs, it’s slightly less powerful than the average portable propane grill on the market, though still capable of good steak sears and more than adequate for most grilling needs. The great look, compact and ultra-light design, even heating grill, and modest price point make it a great choice for most camping trips or tabletop BBQing. For more options, check out our best camping grills guide.
#10 Char-Broil Classic 280 Propane Grill
Award: BEST ON A BUDGET
WHY WE LIKE IT: Exceptional heat output for its size and price point with multiple convenience features and fuel-efficient design for excellent performance at a great value.
- 20,000 BTUs per hour
- 280 square inches cooking space
- Porcelain-coated housing for heat retention
- Smaller cooking area than many similar models
The Coleman Classic 280 is a lightweight, highly mobile budget-minded propane grill that outputs 20,000 BTUs per hour on 280 square inches of cooking space consisting of easy-clean porcelain-coated cast-iron grates for ultra-hot grilling and maximum heat retention. A porcelain-coated lid and heat box offer additional heat retention, adding even more fuel efficiency, and a piezo ignition system allows for a fast and reliable startup.
Though fairly generous for its class and size, it does have a smaller total cooking area than many models, and it’s not quite as feature-rich as many similar models. However, its high fuel efficiency, convenience features, and excellent heat output make it a terrific value for a very portable, well-built model that offers excellent performance. For indoors, we’ve also found the best indoor grills that are definitely worth a look.
How We Decided
We preferred compact, lightweight propane and propane/infrared hybrid grills with heat outputs of no less than 11,000 BTUs per hour and which are designed for safe use and handling in enclosed outdoor and wooded areas. We liked grills with safety features like cool-touch handles and housings as well as durable steel and aluminum.
We also preferred propane grills with removable grilling surfaces and grease traps that were dishwasher-safe and contact-free heating systems for decreased risk of flare-ups and consistent, even cooking. Also appreciated were cooking surfaces that were certified BPA-free and easy to clean, such as porcelain-coated cast-iron grates, and side or auxiliary dedicated-purpose burners for searing, smoking, or rotisserie cooking.
Finally, we liked grills that were fairly easy to move and store, with locking heavy-duty caster wheels and main cooking surface areas of at least 225 square inches. We also appreciated advanced features like infinite ignition burners, infrared heating elements, and double-layered or porcelain-coated steel lids for extra heat retention.
Best Propane Grills Buyer’s Guide
The Most Important Features to Consider
- Power to Size Ratio
There’s no reason a small, compact, and lightweight propane grill can’t reproduce the performance of the larger grills you’re used to at BBQs, and manufacturers have answered the need with a large variety of grills that feature space-saving, easy-store, and highly portable designs. Some models are even built especially for travel with carrying handles, foldable legs, and ultra-durable military-grade steel construction meant to take more abuse than standard at-home models. There’s no shortage of options suitable to whatever balance between size, portability, performance, and price point you’re looking for. Moreover, a high-performance, high-BTU-output propane grill doesn’t have to be an immovable, tank-like object. Plenty of top-performing propane models are available that still offer plenty of mobility and others are on offer that is designed for smaller backyard spaces and patios that don’t sacrifice high heat output or advanced features. - Easy To Clean and Safe
Many propane grills have design features meant to make care and cleaning simpler. Many portability-oriented propane grills specifically feature semi-modular designs and whose main components are dishwasher-safe or easy to clean simply by wiping with a wet cloth. And though smaller and compact grills tend to be safer than their full-size counterparts, they still have hot surfaces that are sometimes exposed, not to mention handles and housing that can reach high heat as well. Look for “cool-touch” features on grills that keep heat from building up to dangerous points on handles or housing, and designs featuring lids to keep cooking surfaces from little hands. Many larger grills with multiple extra dedicated-purpose burners and advanced heating technology come with removable parts or easy-clean, porcelain-coated cast-iron cooking grates that retain heat exceptionally but are also semi-nonstick naturally, making them easier to clean - Fuel Efficiency
While larger models not designed for portability can sometimes be less fuel-efficient than their portable counterparts, many propane grills of all types feature heat-retention designs that include porcelain-coated cast-iron cooking grates that keep hotter longer, porcelain-coated or double thick steel lids that trap hot air and smoke more efficiently, or hybrid heating methods like infrared ceramic heating elements for ultra-hot, clean-burning operation. The majority of travel-friend and purpose-built camping grills are made to run on small, typically standard 1lb liquid propane fuel tanks as their basic source, whether they use infrared technology or not, and are generally designed with extra fuel efficiency in mind, though it’s always worth looking for design features that specifically increase heat retention.
