Portable outdoor electric BBQ grills are gaining popularity, especially amongst travelers and apartment/condo dwellers.
Many apartment owners and HOAs prohibit residents from grilling over an open flame. And electric BBQ grills offer a safe, convenient, and healthy alternative to gas grills.
Electric grills are surprisingly powerful, lightweight, affordable, and do a darn good job emulating the traditional grilling experience.
So if you’re looking for the best outdoor electric grill on the market, you’re in the right place.
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The 10 Best Portable Outdoor Electric BBQ Grills for 2024
Below is a list of the ten best outdoor electric grill options available in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and the U.K. Click on the name to read reviews and check prices or skip ahead to read the entire list by clicking here.
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Best Outdoor Electric Grill Reviews
Here are the complete reviews of the 10 best outdoor electric grills in 2024. Keep reading after the reviews for a guide on what to look for when choosing an electric outdoor grill.
1. George Foreman 15-Serving Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill – Best Overall Choice #1
The George Foreman 15-Serving Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill is a versatile, circular-style electric grill that transitions from the patio to the countertop in seconds.
There’s a lot to love about this electric grill from George Foreman Grilling. Its large, 240 square inch cooking surface gives you enough space to accommodate more than 15 servings.
The grates are removable and made with a nonstick coating. So clean-up is quick, and cooking is healthier because you don’t need to apply butter or oil to the nonstick surface.
The shining feature is the indoor-outdoor removable stand, which gives this George Foreman grill the feel of a traditional grill.
If you’re looking for a safe apartment-approved grill that cooks just as well on the patio as it does indoors, check out the George Foreman 15-Serving Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill.
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2. Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Patio Bistro Electric Grill – Best Overall Choice #2
The Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Patio Bistro Electric Grill is perfect for thimble-sized patios and balconies – yet it still comes with a 320 square inch cooking surface. Amazing!
This outdoor electric grill features porcelain-coated grates, a hood-mounted thermometer, and TRU-Infrared technology.
As a result, you’re able to lock in temperature and monitor it without cracking the lid. Plus, you get an even cooking experience every time, without the smoke or mess.
Unlike other electric grills, the Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Patio Bistro Electric Grill comes with a sturdy wire storage shelf, which gives you ample space to store your tools, sauces, and spices.
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3. Weber Q1400 Electric Outdoor Grill
The Weber Q1400 Electric Outdoor Grill is a powerful, 1560-watt tabletop electric grill that is handsome and compact – yet large enough to accommodate smaller groups.
To start, this unit comes with a 189 square inch cooking surface. That’s enough space for six large burgers.
Extras include porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates and a cast aluminum body and lid. Every inch of this unit is sturdy. Plus, it won’t rust or corrode over time.
This unit is also easy to clean. It comes with a removable grease pan.
The Weber Q1400 Electric Outdoor Grill is also very portable. At only 29.5 pounds, it’s ideal for travelers or folks who need to move their cooking station indoors during the colder season.
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4. Kenyon Floridian All Seasons Portable Stainless Steel Electric Grill
The Kenyon Floridian All Seasons Portable Stainless Steel Electric Grill is another favorite tabletop grill for a few reasons.
To start, it is made from high-quality stainless steel, so it is sleek, cleans easily, and won’t corrode or rust.
If you’re looking to achieve thick, pronounced sear lines, this is one of the best electric grills for the job. This unit soars to 600 degrees Fahrenheit in less than 10 minutes.
But there’s more: The Kenyon Floridian All Seasons Portable Stainless Steel Electric Grill is UL-Approved for indoor and outdoor use. It also comes with a dishwasher-safe lid and grates.
I’m also happy to support American-owned businesses, and this electric grill happens to be made in the USA.
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5. Cuisinart GR-4NP1 5-in-1 Griddler
The Cuisinart GR-4NP1 5-in-1 Griddler is one of the most affordable (and innovative) flat top griddle grills on the market, but don’t let the price tag fool you. This is a well-made machine.
This is a five-in-one electric grill and works as a contact grill, panini press, gas grill, flat top griddle, or half-grill/half-griddle.
Most electric grills don’t give you that much flexibility.
I like the brushed stainless-steel housing and the sturdy panini-style handle. The floating cover also allows you to adjust the lid to compensate for the thickness of your food.
If you enjoy the convenience of cooking various foods all on one surface, check out the Cuisinart GR-4NP1 5-in-1 Griddler.
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6. Techwood Portable Electric Barbecue Grill
The Techwood Portable Electric Barbecue Grill heats quickly, provides an ample cooking surface, and puts out a heck of a lot of heat.
Electric grills tend to be bare-bones cookers, but this one is loaded with extras.
To start, it comes with non-stick grates, a grease catchment system, foldable warming racks, a rotating venting system, and a locking lid.
This unit soars to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and, thanks to the adjustable temperature controller, locks in the heat.
If you’re looking for an intelligently designed electric grill that’s packed with features yet still one of the most affordable units on the market, check out the Techwood Portable Electric Barbecue Grill. It’s one of the best electric grills on the market.
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7. Weber Q 2400 Electric Grill
The Weber Q 2400 Electric Grill is one of the most powerful electric grills on the market.
Many electric grills heat slowly. Not this one. At its highest setting, this unit soars to 600 degrees Fahrenheit in under 20 minutes.
At 600 degrees Fahrenheit, you’re able to produce those thick, pronounced sear lines – exactly like you would with a traditional grill.
Extra features include porcelain-enameled, cast-iron cooking grates that are tough, easy to clean, and rust-resistant.
I also like the convenience of having a removable grease catch pan, which simplifies cleanup.
If you’re looking for a well-made camping BBQ grill with lots of cooking space and impressive heat output, the Weber Q 2400 Electric Grill may be the unit for you.
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8. Giantex 1350W Electric BBQ Grill
The Giantex 1350W Electric BBQ Grill is one of the most fun and innovative outdoor electric grills on the market.
It scores high marks for a few reasons.
To start, it puts out 1,350 watts of heat and comes with a variable temperature controller, allowing you to lock in your ideal heat.
It also comes with a 360 rotatable condiment tray and detachable stand, making it perfect for indoor and outdoor use.
The Giantex 1350W Electric BBQ Grill is easy to clean since grease channels into a collection system and drops into a bowl. It’s one of the best electric grills available.
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9. Cuisinart CEG-980 Outdoor Electric Grill with VersaStand
The Cuisinart CEG-980 Outdoor Electric Grill with VersaStand may only be 22” wide and weigh 16 pounds, but it still packs a serious punch.
This 1,500-watt outdoor electric grill heats in less than 10 minutes and gives you 145 square inches of grilling space. That’s plenty of room to cook for medium-sized groups.
This may be the best portable electric grill for travelers or those with limited space.
This unit comes with a collapsible stand, which can be used like outdoor electric grills or a tabletop grill.
The Cuisinart CEG-980 Outdoor Electric Grill with VersaStand is efficient, road-ready, and ideal if you have limited space.
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10. Cuisinart COS-330 Electric Smoker
The Cuisinart COS-330 Electric Smoker allows you to master the smoking experience quickly and effortlessly.
Just plug it in, fill the water pain, choose your favorite wood chips, set the temperature, and drop your food.
This electric smoker does everything else for you.
This unit is 37” tall and weighs just under 60 pounds – so it’s small enough for compact spaces yet surprisingly powerful.
The Cuisinart COS-330 Electric Smoker comes with a 1,500-watt heating element, so it’s able to soar up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit effortlessly.
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What should I consider when choosing an electric grill?
Before you purchase an outdoor electric grill, compare the grill dimensions to those of your patio or balcony – or vehicle if you plan on taking your grill on the road. Also, consider the surface area square inches, style, and the additional features listed below.
Type
If this is the first time you’ve considered an outdoor electric grill, you may be surprised at the abundance of options. Electric grills have been around for ages, but they’ve come a long way in terms of design and efficiency.
Portable/Tabletop
Portable electric grills are ideal for condo and apartment dwellers who have limited space or are restricted from cooking on an open flame. A portable electric grill is not only space-saving. It does not use an open flame. As a result, you can safely use them on a patio or covered balcony.
Freestanding/Cart Style
Freestanding grills are popular because they provide extra storage space and look and cook like a traditional grill. In addition, many units can accommodate smoker boxes and wood chips, allowing you to achieve rich, smoky flavor – without an open flame.
Built-In
Built-in electric grills are powerful, accurate, compact, and don’t produce smoke or flare-ups. They are safe to use inside and outside and can be incorporated into virtually any kitchen, balcony, or patio station.
Smoker Grill Combo
Because these units rely on electricity, they eliminate the learning curve and constant monitoring a traditional smoker grill combo or charcoal grill requires.
They do not use charcoal or wood, so they are clean-burning, safe to use on covered balconies, and easy to clean.
Cooking Surface Size
Before you purchase an electric BBQ grill, review your typical cooking regimen and menu and determine how much cooking space you need.
If you are a casual griller who occasionally cooks sandwiches, burgers, and brats for two, a 20-25 square-inch cooking surface should be efficient.
However, if you entertain large groups or like to cook rib racks and larger cuts of meat, larger units provide up to 500 square inches of cooking surface.
Construction Material
Electric grills are manufactured from various materials, including stainless steel, aluminum, and heat-resistant plastic. They also come with accessories manufactured from porcelain-coated cast iron and non-stick Teflon.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is durable, sleek, and water-resistant, making it one of the most commonly used exterior grill materials.
Because it is rust and weather resistant, it provides an ideal protective shell for all of the electric components on the inside of your barbecue grill.
Porcelain-Coated Cast Iron
Porcelain-coated cast iron is most frequently used to make grill grates and griddles accessories. That’s because cast iron is tough. Thanks to its protective porcelain shell, it won’t warp in high heat, and it won’t rust or corrode.
Non-Stick Cooking Surface
Non-stick cooking surfaces keep food intact and reduce cleanup, giving them an edge over porcelain-coated cooking surfaces.
Tired of losing half of your burgers to the grates or spending hours scraping carbon? You may benefit from a grill that features a non-stick grill surface.
Portability
Electric grill manufacturers have you in mind if you enjoy traveling with your grill or live in a compact space like a condo or patio.
Electric grills often fold down for easy stow and go. Many also come with all-terrain wheels and locking casters, making it quick and convenient to relocate your grill and free up additional space.
Price
Electric grills are available for as little as $100 and as much as $450, making them more budget-friendly than gas grills. Don’t let the low price tag fool you, though.
Electric grills are powerful, clean-burning cooking machines that give propane units a run for their money.
Warranty
Not all warranties are created equally, so before purchasing, do some investigating by visiting the manufacturer’s website. Most manufacturers dedicate an entire page to warranty specs for every model they offer.
Heat Output and Control
When shopping for an outdoor electric grill, pay close attention to the wattage. The higher the number, the more heat it produces. Smaller units are typically 1,200 watts; larger ones peak at 2,000 watts.
Electric grills typically operate like an electric stove, so all you have to do is plug it in, turn the control dial, and wait for it to heat up.
Some units provide convenient digital temperature readings in real-time. Others only indicate whether the temperature is low, medium, or high and, thus, take more time to get used to.
Storage Areas
Electric grills come in all shapes and sizes, but since they are designed specifically for travel or life in small spaces, most do not have the storage space you get with a traditional grill.
There are a few exceptions, however.
Freestanding grills like the Giantex 1350W Electric BBQ Grill come with a built-in condiment tray. Others, like the Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Patio Bistro Electric Grill, come with a sturdy wire shelf, which provides ample space for tools, sauces, and spices.
Additional Features
Outdoor electric grills have been around for a long time – and over the years, manufacturers have continued to improve their designs. Digital controls, removable griddle plates, and built-in storage and beer holders are a few examples.
FAQs About Electric Outdoor Grills
Electric outdoor grills are intuitive, clean-burning machines that allow you to enjoy the BBQ experience (and taste) without the smoke of a gas or charcoal grill. And that’s why more people are making the switch – especially folks who live in apartments and condos.
That said, you may still have questions about these machines.
Can an electric grill stay outside?
That depends on the model, but most units are designed for all-weather use and can be left outdoors. However, I do recommend purchasing a grill cover for your outdoor electric grill. This will extend the life of your grill and protect the electronic components.
Are electric grills easier to clean?
Typically, yes. Electric grills do not use charcoal or wood, which produces smoke and carbon build-up. Because of that, they require a less intensive cleaning regimen than charcoal and gas grills.
Also, most outdoor electric grills are made with a nonstick coating. Less stickage means less food and debris is left behind on the grates and griddle – which means there’s less buildup to clean.
What electric grill gets the hottest?
If you’re looking to achieve searing hot temperatures, pay attention to the wattage. The higher the wattage, the more heat your electric grill will produce.
If you like bold sear lines and high heat output, check out the Weber Q 2400 Electric Grill. At its highest setting, this unit soars to 600 degrees Fahrenheit in under 20 minutes. That’s impressive, especially for an outdoor electric grill.
Are electric grills as good as a charcoal or gas grill?
That’s a tricky question. Charcoal creates a rich, smoky flavor that’s hard to reproduce with propane and electricity. On the other hand, propane heats quickly and allows you to achieve searing-hot temperatures and pronounced grill lines.
However, both a charcoal grill and gas grill produce smoke, open flame, and may create dangerous flare-ups.
Outdoor electric grills are clean-burning, powerful, and produce healthier food than charcoal and gas grills.
Why? Because they don’t produce carcinogens – and they don’t rely on unsustainable fuel sources. They are also affordable, safe to use in virtually any environment, and still produce great-tasting food!
Can all-electric grills be used inside?
Not necessarily. Many electric grills are designed for indoor use because they come with a smoke-management system, do not use an open flame, and do not produce fumes.
Not all electric grills are created equally, however. Before you buy, check with the manufacturer to ensure that it is safe to use indoors.
What is the best outdoor electric grill to buy?
What’s the best outdoor electric grill on the market? That depends on your budget and preferences, but if I had to choose one standout unit, it’d be the George Foreman 15-Serving Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill
The George Foreman is a versatile, circular-style electric grill that provides an ample cooking surface (240 square inches) and is very mobile.
The grates are removable and made with a nonstick coating. So clean-up is quick, easy, and healthier. No butter or oil is needed.
I hope you enjoyed this review of the best outdoor electric grills. Happy grilling!
Related content you might like:
- 10 Best George Foreman Grills for 2024
- The 21 Best Infrared Grills for 2024
- 11 Best Smokeless Indoor Grills for 2024
- 10 Best Outdoor Patio Heaters for 2024
