In addition to the grill BTU rating specs, we used an infrared thermometer to track temperature increases over time. Our R&D department develops high-quality, fairly priced grilling equipment. When you click on links to buy products we may earn money to support our work.
The single-rack model with the largest grilling area is the Coleman Roadtrip 285. As the name describes, it has an impressive 285 square inches of cooking space. Our team found that this is plenty weber genesis 2 enough room to cook for a good-sized backyard BBQ or backcountry base camp. Charcoal grills are the top choice for many grill enthusiasts, but this type of cooking can take years to master.
The Coleman Roadtrip 285 tops the list of our favorite propane models when it comes to grill control and temperature regulation. There are three dials that control the different zones, but all of those heat zones overlap. The middle dial controls a burner that spans the length of the whole grill, while the other two dials control an additional burner on each side.
Not only is it incredibly fuel-efficient, but this portable powerhouse reaches peak temperature within a matter of minutes after clicking the piezo lighter. A lightweight steel lid and three insulating walls give it the ability to both block wind and retain heat, allowing you to cook in less-than-ideal weather. This model cools down almost as quickly as it heats up for a quick get-away, with a locking lid and enough space weber charcoal grill to store one-pound gas canisters. Although this portable powerhouse reaches top temperatures with ease, it is more difficult to learn how to harness the heat of the grill surface for foods that require more low-and-slow cooking. Portable grills are also great for smaller outdoor spaces that simply can’t fit normal grills. For instance, apartments that don’t allow gas grills may still accommodate portable electric grills.
We loved the novelty of George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor grill for its ability to cook an entire meal outside, and then move onto the table for a Hibachi-style fajita night. The Coleman Roadtrip 285 is not the easiest grill to move, but the large wheels and long handle certainly help. The Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 is unique in that, for transport, you can carry fuel cans inside the lid.