Electric BBQ grills are perfect for those looking to enjoy grilled food without the hassle of charcoal or propane. Small electric grills, in particular, offer portability and convenience for indoor and outdoor grilling. This article reviews the best small electric BBQ grills available, highlighting their features, versatility, and cooking capacity suitable for apartment balconies, kitchens, patios, or tailgating.
| Product | Brand | Power | Cooking Surface | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YOHAWJAN 2-in-1 Smokeless Indoor Grill | YOHAWJAN | 1500W | Grill & Griddle Plate | 3 Raclette Cheese Pans, Adjustable Temp |
| George Foreman Indoor Outdoor Electric Grill | George Foreman | Not Specified | 200 sq. in. | Healthy Drip Tray, 5 Heat Settings |
| Elite Gourmet EMG-980B Smokeless Tabletop Grill | Elite Gourmet | 1300W | 14″ Nonstick | Removable Plate, Tempered Glass Lid |
| Cuisinart 2-in-1 Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill | Cuisinart | Not Specified | 240 sq. in. | Stand/Tabletop Use, 5 Heat Settings |
| Techwood 15-Serving Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill | Techwood | 1600W | 240 sq. in. | Double Layer Design, Foldable Warming Rack |
YOHAWJAN 2-in-1 Smokeless Indoor Grill with Raclette Pans
The YOHAWJAN Electric Indoor Grill features a versatile 2-in-1 design with both grill mesh and griddle plate, allowing you to grill, roast, or fry a wide range of foods. Its 1500 watts of power supports efficient cooking, including melting cheese and grilling meats or vegetables rapidly. Adjustable temperature control ensures you can fine-tune heat levels for precision cooking. This grill also includes three individual mini raclette cheese pans, ideal for melting cheese or preparing side dishes. The smokeless design makes it suitable for indoor use without excess smoke or odors.
George Foreman Indoor Outdoor Electric Grill with Drip Tray
The George Foreman Electric Grill is well-suited for both indoor and outdoor cooking with a large 200-square-inch grilling surface that can serve 12-plus servings. Its non-stick grill plate paired with a healthy grilling drip tray helps reduce fat by draining excess grease away from the food. It features five adjustable heat settings via a temperature probe, providing control for various grilling needs. The fully electric system eliminates flare-ups, charcoal, or propane, making it apartment-friendly and low maintenance.
Elite Gourmet EMG-980B Smokeless Electric Tabletop Grill
The Elite Gourmet EMG-980B offers a large 14-inch cooking surface ideal for preparing meals for up to six people. Its circular heating element ensures even heat distribution for cooking steaks, ribs, veggies, or salmon. The nonstick removable grilling plate simplifies cleaning, and the tempered glass lid helps retain heat. Designed to be smokeless, this 1300W electric grill lets you enjoy BBQ flavors anytime indoors, while the cool-touch handles provide safety during use. It has five adjustable temperature settings up to 450°F.
Cuisinart 2-in-1 Portable Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill
The Cuisinart 2-in-1 Electric Grill stands out for its flexibility, usable indoors on the tabletop or outdoors with its detachable stand. Its spacious 240-square-inch nonstick cooking area can accommodate up to 12 burgers at a time, perfect for small group gatherings. Adjustable heat controls range from 350°F to 550°F allowing for precise cooking of various foods. A 6-foot power cord adds convenience for placement. Its design is great for balconies, patios, or small kitchens.
Techwood High-Capacity 15-Serving Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill
The Techwood Electric BBQ Grill offers a large 240-square-inch cooking surface designed for over 15 servings, suitable for parties and family gatherings. This grill features a double-layer design with a foldable warming rack to keep food warm. Equipped with a 1600W fast heating element and adjustable temperature control, it ensures juicy and evenly cooked meat without flare-ups or charcoal. The portable stand makes it ideal for indoor or outdoor use including camping and balcony settings. Both cooking racks are removable for easy cleaning.
Buying Guide for Small Electric BBQ Grills
When choosing the best small electric BBQ grill, consider these important factors:
- Cooking Surface Size: Determine how many servings you will usually prepare. Smaller grills suit 2-6 persons, while larger small grills can accommodate 12+ servings.
- Portability and Design: Look for compact and lightweight grills if you plan to use it on balconies, indoors, or for tailgating. Removable stands or tabletop options enhance versatility.
- Heat Control: Adjustable temperature settings are essential for cooking a variety of foods properly. Many models feature 5 or more heat levels.
- Smokeless Operation: For indoor use, prioritize grills with smokeless technology or good ventilation to reduce smoke and odors.
- Power and Heating Speed: Higher wattage (around 1300-1600W) provides faster and more even heating, important for efficient cooking.
- Nonstick and Ease of Cleaning: Removable nonstick plates simplify cleaning and prevent food from sticking.
- Additional Features: Look for extras like raclette pans for cheese melting, drip trays for healthy grilling, or warming racks for extended serving times.
Considering these aspects will help you select an electric grill that matches your lifestyle, whether for indoor use on a small balcony or outdoor grilling at the park or campsite.