When Memorial Day rolls around, you want to make the most of your outdoor cooking experience without the hassle of bulky equipment. Choosing the right compact grill can transform your BBQ into a seamless, enjoyable event whether you’re tailgating, camping, or just grilling in your backyard. You’ll appreciate how a compact grill offers portability, efficient cooking, and easy setup, helping you serve delicious meals with less stress. This guide highlights top compact grills that combine performance and convenience, so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying great food and quality time with friends and family.
Top Picks
- Best Overall: Cuisinart Chef’s Style Tabletop Portable Propane Gas Grill – $169.99
- Best Value: Gas One 14-inch Portable Charcoal Grill – $18.99
- Best Indoor Compact Grill: George Foreman 2-Serving Classic Plate Electric Indoor Grill – $19.99
- Best Versatile Indoor Grill and Griddle: Ninja Griddle and Indoor Grill, 14’’ – $138.29
- Best Premium Portable Gas Grill: Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill – $259.00
How We Chose the Best Compact Grills
When selecting the best compact grills for your Memorial Day BBQ, we focused on portability, cooking performance, ease of use, and durability. Portability ensures you can take your grill anywhere, from tailgates to camping trips. Cooking performance matters because you want even heat distribution and enough space to prepare meals efficiently. Ease of use includes simple setup, ignition, and cleaning, so you spend less time on maintenance and more time enjoying your food. Durability guarantees your grill will last through many BBQ seasons. We also considered customer reviews to understand real-world experiences and satisfaction.
Cuisinart Chef’s Style Tabletop Grill
If you’re looking for a compact grill that doesn’t skimp on power or performance, the Cuisinart Chef’s Style Tabletop Grill is a solid pick. It’s got two burners pumping out a total of 20,000 BTUs, which means you can easily handle everything from burgers to veggies without crowding your cooking space. The stainless steel build feels sturdy and looks sharp, plus it’s light enough to take along for camping trips, tailgates, or just moving around your patio. Setup is a breeze — you can have it ready in under 10 minutes without any tools. Whether you’re grilling for a small family or just want something that fits neatly on your deck, this grill gives you that full-sized BBQ vibe in a compact package. It’s perfect for everyday use or those special Memorial Day BBQs when you want to impress without the hassle.
What People Say
People appreciate how this compact grill balances portability with serious grilling power. Many mention it’s perfect for smaller groups and love the even heat distribution. The quick ignition and easy cleanup also get high marks, making it a favorite for both casual and more frequent grillers.
- I grill a couple of times per week and this smaller package works for a family of four just fine. No wasted heat and how many times per year do you really need a 6-burner propane grill? This takes up much less space on the deck and is portable. Purchased open box for an excellent price! This is portable and looks sharp.
– Review Pro
- The ignition mechanism works very well, always on one click. The grill puts out substantial heat, and the heat distribution is surprisingly uniform. I was able to fill the grill with hamburger patties and cook them in a fairly strong, cold breeze. Cleanup is easy. You can literally set this grill in the yard and hose it out.
– Graphic Fusion
How It Fits Your Life
| Situation | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Camping trips | Lightweight and portable, so you can grill anywhere without lugging heavy gear. |
| Small patios or balconies | Compact size fits tight spaces without sacrificing cooking surface. |
| Tailgating | Quick setup and reliable ignition get you grilling fast before the game. |
| Weeknight dinners | Dual burners let you cook different foods at once with precise heat control. |
Where You Can Use It
This grill is designed for outdoor use only, but it’s versatile enough for your backyard, patio, or even a campsite. Just make sure you’re in a well-ventilated area since it runs on propane.
Why You’ll Love It
- Powerful dual burners with 20,000 BTUs total for versatile cooking
- Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport and store
- Stainless steel grates deliver even heat for consistent grilling
- Quick setup with twist-start ignition and no tools required
- Integrated thermometer helps you keep perfect temperature control
Current Price: $169.99
Rating: 4.5 (total: 5,606+)
Gas One 14-inch Portable Charcoal Grill
If you want a compact grill that’s easy to carry but still gives you enough space to cook up a solid meal, the Gas One 14-inch Portable Charcoal Grill is worth checking out. It’s got a 14-inch cooking area that’s just right for steaks, veggies, or burgers without feeling cramped. The design is super portable and lightweight, so you can easily take it from your backyard to a camping trip or even a boat outing. What’s cool is the 3-point locking lid that keeps the heat in for even cooking, plus the dual vents help you control the temperature just right. It’s simple to assemble and clean, making it a practical choice for everyday grilling or those special Memorial Day BBQs when you want to keep things casual but tasty.
What People Say
Users love how this compact grill balances portability with enough cooking space for a good meal. Many highlight the easy assembly and sturdy feel, plus the locking lid and vents that really help with heat control. It’s a favorite for quick cookouts, camping, and small gatherings.
- Just big enough to be good for cooking for yourself. Small, lightweight, easy to put together. Just read the instructions carefully. Very cheap too.
– Joshua Booher
- This is a great little portable gas grill. It’s small but you can get a lot of meat and veggies on it for each go. It works well and I love the size of it. I can throw it in the back of my Toyota and take it to the park and just grill up some stuff and enjoy some BBQ for the day. I’m looking forward to the summer time this year when I can get some more grilling in and really cook it up on this thing. It feels well made and was very easy to assemble. It’s sturdy and just works. 5 stars all around!
– DJ GodsOwn
Fits Your Lifestyle
| Situation | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Camping trips | Lightweight and portable, so you can grill anywhere without hassle. |
| Small patios or balconies | Compact design fits tight spaces but still offers a decent cooking area. |
| Backyard BBQs | Locks heat in with its 3-point lid for even grilling every time. |
| Picnics and tailgates | Easy to carry and quick to set up, so you can focus on the fun. |
Where to Use It
This grill is made for outdoor use — whether that’s your backyard, a campsite, or a picnic spot. Just make sure you’re in a well-ventilated area since it’s charcoal-powered.
Why You’ll Like It
- Compact and lightweight for easy transport and storage
- 3-point locking lid preserves heat for even cooking
- Dual ventilation system for optimal temperature control
- Includes ash catcher to keep your grilling area clean
- Spacious 14-inch cooking surface fits a variety of foods
Current Price: $18.99
Rating: 4.3 (total: 1,943+)
George Foreman 2-Serving Classic Grill
If you’re tight on space but still want to enjoy grilled favorites, this George Foreman 2-Serving Classic Grill is a solid pick. It’s small enough to fit comfortably on your countertop or in a cozy apartment kitchen, yet it grills up a decent amount of food for one or two people. The sloped design helps drain away fat, so your meals come out a bit leaner without extra effort. Plus, the nonstick coating means cleanup is a breeze — just wipe it down or pop the drip tray in the dishwasher. Whether you’re whipping up a quick burger, panini, or veggies, this compact grill gets the job done fast and keeps things simple.
What People Say
People appreciate how this compact grill heats up quickly and cooks food evenly, making it great for quick meals. The fat-draining slope and easy-to-clean surfaces get a lot of praise, especially from those with limited kitchen space or who want a fuss-free grilling experience.
- This George Foreman was perfect to use for my GED students. The school doesn’t send them hot sandwiches, so we use this to make grilled cheese. It’s a nice option so students can have a partially hot meal without smoke or fire.
– John Iorio
- LOVE my mini George Foreman grill! It heats up perfectly hot to get a good sear! I tried the larger grills with the removable trays for cleaning but they never heated up hot enough! The clean is still very easy!
– Kathleen M. Histon
Perfect For
| Situation | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Small apartments or dorm rooms | Its compact footprint fits limited counter space without sacrificing grilling power. |
| Quick weekday meals | Heats up fast and cooks evenly, so you’re eating in no time. |
| Healthy cooking | Sloped design drains fat away for leaner meals without extra effort. |
| Indoor grilling | Electric design means no smoke or charcoal, perfect for indoor use. |
Where to Use It
This grill is designed for indoor use, making it ideal for apartments, offices, or anywhere you want grilled food without the hassle of outdoor setups. Just plug it in, and you’re ready to go.
Why You’ll Love It
- Compact size fits small kitchens and apartments
- Sloped grilling surface drains away up to 42% of fat
- Durable nonstick coating for easy cleanup
- Quick heating with dual contact plates
- Dishwasher-safe drip tray collects grease
Current Price: $19.99
Rating: 4.5 (total: 14,020+)
Ninja Sizzle Indoor Grill & Griddle
If you’re looking for a compact grill that can handle everything from juicy steaks to fluffy pancakes, the Ninja Sizzle Indoor Grill & Griddle is a great fit. It’s designed to bring that high-heat grilling experience right to your countertop, hitting up to 500°F for perfect sear marks and even cooking across the whole surface. What’s cool is that it comes with interchangeable grill and griddle plates, so you can switch things up depending on what you’re craving — whether that’s a classic burger or breakfast pancakes. Cleanup is straightforward too, thanks to the nonstick, dishwasher-safe plates and a vented lid that helps keep smoke and splatter in check. It’s a solid choice for everyday meals or when you want to impress at your next Memorial Day BBQ without needing a big outdoor setup.
What People Say
Users love how this compact grill heats up quickly and cooks food evenly, making it perfect for everything from burgers to pancakes. The removable plates and dishwasher-safe design make cleanup hassle-free, and the grill’s sleek, low-profile look fits well in any kitchen. Some mention it gets hotter than the dial suggests, so you might want to dial it down a bit once you get used to it.
- This grill is outstanding. We had a Hamilton Beach that wasn’t heating properly anymore after 4 years, so we bought this after lots of research. The griddle is amazing — I can fit 8 pieces of bacon cooking evenly at once, which I couldn’t do before. Heat distribution is awesome and it gets hotter than expected, so I often turn it down a bit. It’s easy to use, clean, and looks sleek on the counter. The only downsides are no light to indicate when it’s hot and no Ninja Throwing Star included, but overall, it’s money well spent.
– Anthony Bello
- I was skeptical at first, but after grilling burgers and bacon, I’m impressed. It’s lightweight, easy to clean (just remove the plates and rinse), and versatile for indoor cooking. The quality feels solid, and it works great for grilling inside without the hassle of smoke or complicated cleanup.
– Toaster
Perfect For
| Situation | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Small kitchens or limited counter space | Its compact design fits easily without crowding your kitchen, yet still cooks enough for a family. |
| Indoor cooking during any season | Allows you to grill inside without smoke overload, so you can enjoy BBQ flavors year-round. |
| Quick weekday dinners | Heats up fast and cooks evenly, so you’re not waiting around to eat. |
| Hosting small gatherings | Family-sized plates fit multiple burgers or pancakes, making it easy to feed a crowd indoors. |
Where to Use It
This is an indoor grill designed for countertop use, perfect for apartments, offices, or any home where outdoor grilling isn’t an option. Just plug it in and you’re ready to grill without worrying about weather or smoke.
Why You’ll Enjoy It
- Interchangeable grill and griddle plates for versatile cooking
- Reaches up to 500°F for high-heat searing and great grill marks
- Even, edge-to-edge heating with no hot or cold spots
- Nonstick, dishwasher-safe plates for easy cleanup
- Compact size fits nicely on your countertop without taking up too much space
Current Price: $138.29
Rating: 4.6 (total: 1,699+)
Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill
If you’re after a compact grill that packs serious performance without taking up much space, the Weber Q1200 is a solid choice. It’s got a sleek, sturdy design with cast-aluminum construction that makes it lightweight enough to take on tailgates or camping trips, yet durable enough for regular backyard use. The cooking area is just right for a small group, and the porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates deliver those classic grill marks and even heat. Plus, the fold-out side tables give you a little extra prep space when you need it. Whether you’re searing steaks, grilling veggies, or trying out a new recipe, this grill handles it all with ease. It’s perfect for Memorial Day BBQs when you want something portable but reliable.
What People Say
People appreciate how this compact grill heats up quickly and maintains steady temperatures, making it easy to cook everything from steaks to veggies. The fold-out side tables and sturdy build get frequent mentions, along with how simple it is to clean after use. Some note that while it’s small, it’s surprisingly powerful and perfect for tailgating or small backyard gatherings.
- The Weber name speaks for itself. I fired up the grill and cooked a thick ribeye steak at 450 degrees. The temperature held steady and was easy to adjust. The steak came out medium rare with a perfect pink center — honestly the best steak I’ve ever cooked on a portable tabletop grill. It’s easy to clean too, and I know I’ll have years of use with this one.
– G. Tore
- By far my best purchase on Amazon. This little grill sears everything perfectly and cooks fast. Cleanup is a breeze. If you don’t have one yet, you should definitely get one. It’s a compact grill that really delivers on performance.
– Luis
Perfect For
| Situation | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Tailgating and camping trips | Its lightweight design and fold-out tables make it easy to pack up and set up wherever you go. |
| Small patios or balconies | Compact footprint fits nicely without crowding your outdoor space. |
| Quick weeknight dinners | Heats up fast and cooks evenly, so you’re not waiting long to eat. |
| Memorial Day BBQs with a small group | Enough cooking area for burgers, chops, and veggies without needing a huge grill. |
Where to Use It
This grill is designed for outdoor use, whether that’s your backyard, a campsite, or a tailgate. Its compact size and portability make it a great option when you want to grill on the go, but it’s not meant for indoor use.
Why You’ll Love It
- Compact and lightweight for easy transport and storage
- Porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates for even heat and great sear marks
- Fold-out side tables add convenient prep space
- Electronic ignition for quick, reliable starts
- Adjustable burner valve lets you dial in the perfect temperature
Current Price: $259.00
Rating: 4.8 (total: 7,935+)
FAQ
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Compact Grill for Your Memorial Day BBQ?
When picking a compact grill for your Memorial Day BBQ, you want to balance portability, cooking space, and heat output. Think about how many people you usually cook for—some compact grills like the Cuisinart Chef’s Style offer dual burners and about 275 square inches of cooking area, which is great for a family of four. Also, consider fuel type: propane grills heat up quickly and are easy to control, while charcoal grills give you that classic smoky flavor but require more attention. Portability matters too—if you plan to take your grill camping or tailgating, look for lightweight models with secure lids or handles. Don’t forget ease of cleaning and durability; stainless steel grills tend to last longer and resist rust. Finally, check if assembly is required and whether the grill comes with useful features like built-in thermometers or adjustable heat zones to help you grill like a pro.
How Do You Get the Best Performance Out of a Compact Grill?
To get the most from your compact grill, start by preheating it properly—give it at least 10 to 15 minutes to reach the right temperature. Use the built-in thermometer if your grill has one to monitor heat precisely. When cooking, take advantage of dual burners if available to create different heat zones, so you can sear meats on high heat and cook veggies more gently. Keep your grill clean by brushing grates after each use and emptying drip trays to avoid flare-ups. For propane grills, make sure your tank is full and connections are secure. If you’re using charcoal, manage airflow with vents to control temperature. Also, consider investing in a grill cover to protect your compact grill from the elements and extend its lifespan. With these tips, you’ll enjoy hassle-free grilling and delicious results every time.
Are Compact Grills Suitable for Cooking for a Group or Just Small Meals?
Compact grills are surprisingly versatile and can handle cooking for small groups, especially if you choose models with ample cooking surface like the Cuisinart Chef’s Style with 275 square inches. While they won’t replace a full-sized grill for large parties, they’re perfect for family gatherings, tailgates, or camping trips where space is limited. You can cook multiple items at once by using dual burners or managing heat zones effectively. For bigger crowds, you might need to cook in batches, but the quick heat-up times of compact grills mean you won’t be waiting long. If you mostly grill for one or two people, smaller electric or tabletop grills like the George Foreman or Ninja models offer convenience and fast cleanup. So yes, compact grills can be your go-to for a perfect Memorial Day BBQ without the bulk.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right compact grill can elevate your Memorial Day BBQ by making grilling more convenient and enjoyable. Whether you prefer the powerful propane performance of the Cuisinart Chef’s Style Tabletop Grill or the budget-friendly portability of the Gas One charcoal grill, there’s an option to fit your needs. For indoor grilling, the George Foreman and Ninja grills offer compact solutions with quick heating and easy cleanup. If you want a premium portable gas grill, the Weber Q1200 delivers excellent heat control and durability. With any of these compact grills, you can confidently prepare delicious meals while enjoying the freedom to grill wherever you want.
| Product | Image | Rating | Highlights | Pros | Cons | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cuisinart Chef’s Style Tabletop Portable Propane Gas Grill |
|
4.5/5 (5,606 reviews) | 20,000 BTUs, Dual Burners, Built-in Thermometer, Portable Design | Powerful grilling, portable, easy to set up, stylish stainless steel finish. | Metal cover may feel flimsy, requires careful handling. | $169.99 |
| Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill |
|
4.3/5 (1,943 reviews) | 14-inch Cooking Area, Dual Venting System, Compact Design | Lightweight, easy to transport, good heat retention. | Limited cooking area, may not hold enough charcoal. | $18.99 |
| George Foreman 2-Serving Classic Plate Electric Grill |
 |
4.5/5 (14,020 reviews) | Compact Size, Nonstick Coating, Grease Management System | Fast grilling, easy to clean, ideal for small meals. | Limited cooking space for larger portions. | $19.99 |
| Ninja Griddle and Indoor Grill |
 |
4.6/5 (1,699 reviews) | 500°F Cooking, Nonstick, Dishwasher Safe, Interchangeable Plates | Versatile cooking options, easy cleanup, even heat distribution. | No indicator light for cooking temperature. | $138.29 |
| Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill |
 |
4.8/5 (7,935 reviews) | Portable Design, Electronic Ignition, Built-in Thermometer | Excellent heat retention, compact and portable, durable construction. | Propane tank not included, ignition button may require adjustment. | $259.00 |
