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diff --git a/wired/published/portable-grills.txt b/wired/published/portable-grills.txt index 30c4f54..81b95f8 100644 --- a/wired/published/portable-grills.txt +++ b/wired/published/portable-grills.txt @@ -1,108 +1,159 @@ -Nothing says summer quite like cooking over an open flame. Whether it's the salty sweetness on that lightly charred freshly grilled corn or the rich smoothness of smoked meat summer begs us to get outside and light a fire. +- **[Fujifilm Instax SP3 Photo Printer](https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1367924-REG/fujifilm_16558085_instax_share_sp_3_smartphone.html{: rel=nofollow}:** The SP3 is a great little portable printer. It prints square, Polaroid-style images (roughly half the size of traditional Polaroid) at a reasonable price-per-print. -Sure, the true grilling enthusiast is outdoors checking the temp on their smoker even when the wind chill is in the single digits. For most of us though, the grilling season starts on Memorial Day, we really hit our stride around the Fourth of July, and after those final Labor Day hot dogs are gone, the grill goes rolling back into the garage. -We've looked at full size [gas](https://www.wired.com/2016/05/best-gas-grills/) and [charcoal grills](https://www.wired.com/2016/05/best-charcoal-grills/) in the past, but with the summer travel season in full swing we wanted to find the best ways to get your grill on wherever you go. -*(Note: When you buy something using the retail links in our stories, we may earn a small affiliate commission. [Read more](https://www.wired.com/2015/11/affiliate-link-policy/) about how this works.)* -### Best Overall Charcoal -Of the charcoal grills I tested, the [Weber Jumbo Joe](https://www.weber.com/US/en/grills/portable-grills/jumbo-joe-series/1211001.html){: rel=nofollow} strikes the best balance of affordability, features, and ease of use. It's big enough (18.5 inches in diameter) to handle meals for six people, but small enough that you'll still have room in the trunk for a cooler and camping supplies. -It's one of the most versatile grills I tested, grilling, barbecuing and smoking with ease. Thanks to its dual vent system (one at the bottom, one at the top), you get the same fine-grained level of temperature control you'll find in Weber's full size kettles. -The Jumbo Joe offers 240 inches of cooking space. That's enough room to smoke two racks of ribs, or fit burgers and corn for six people (admittedly, this was crowded). It weighs 22 pounds and features a handle with a bar that fits over the top and keeps the kettle and lid together for easy carrying. I tossed mine in the back of our car from trips to the lake and the park and it never tipped over. The ash catcher at the bottom makes cleaning less of a hassle by allowing you to dump the excess without removing the grill grates. -As much as I like the Jumbo Joe, it's not perfect. If you want to do any indirect heat cooking, you'll want to buy the [hinged grill grate for $25](https://www.amazon.com/Weber-7436-Replacement-Hinged-Cooking/dp/B000WEPHKW/){: rel=nofollow} so you can feed in fresh fuel without removing the top grill. To my mind the hinged grate should be included by default, as should a thermometer, but neither are. The other drawback is that, inexplicably, Weber does not make a cover for the Jumbo Joe. -While there's no cover, there are quite a few accessories available for the Jumbo Joe, both from Weber and third-parties. Some of these cost many times more than the grill itself—like the [Kettle Pizza Kit for $115](https://www.amazon.com/Kettle-Pizza-KPB-18-2-Inch-Grills/dp/B005V95DMA){: rel=nofollow}—but the one I highly recommend for slow cooks, aside from the hinged grill grate, is a [charcoal basket for $17](https://www.amazon.com/Weber-7403-Char-Basket-Charcoal-Briquet/dp/B000WEMGM4/){: rel=nofollow}. -The Jumbo Joe has a considerable following on the internet. Fans have hacked their grills to [add thermometers](http://olddavespo-farm.blogspot.com/search/label/Weber%20Jumbo%20Joe%20Review), knobs to make it easier to open and close vents, add [hanging ash cans](http://weberkettleclub.com/forums/weber-kettles-accessories/jumbo-joe-mods/), as well as creative ways to cook taller fare, like [beer can chicken](https://www.bbqdryrubs.com/weber-jumbo-joe-beer-can-chicken/). -**[Buy the Weber Jumbo Joe for $70 from Weber](https://www.weber.com/US/en/grills/portable-grills/jumbo-joe-series/1211001.html){: rel=nofollow} or [Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Weber-1211001-Jumbo-18-Inch-Portable/dp/B0098HR0RC/){: rel=nofollow}.** -***Smaller Alternative**: The [Smokey Joe Premium for $45](https://www.weber.com/US/en/grills/portable-grills/smokey-joe-series/40020.html){: rel=nofollow} (on [Walmart](https://www.walmart.com/ip/Weber-40020-Smokey-Joe-Premium-14-Inch-Portable-Grill/178598853){: rel=nofollow}, [Home Depot](https://www.homedepot.com/p/Weber-Smokey-Joe-Premium-Portable-Charcoal-Grill-in-Black-40020/100401878){: rel=nofollow}) is Weber's 14-inch grill and would be our top pick for anyone who doesn't need the larger Jumbo Joe (and spring for the Premium, which features the same lid closure as the Jumbo, trust us, it's worth the $10). The big downside to the Smokey Joe is you lose the lower vent of the Jumbo Joe, which means less control over temperature. If you're not slow cooking that's not a huge deal, but worth knowing. The Smokey Joe was also somewhat more difficult to clean out. Still, if you want a smaller kettle this is a good way to go.* +True grilling enthusiasts are outdoors checking the temp on their smokers even when the windchill is in the single digits. For most of us though, the grilling season starts on Memorial Day. Luckily for you, grill testing goes all winter long. I've smoked ribs in the snow and grilled chicken even when it was so cold I could barely feel my fingers, all to learn which new grills are worthy of your money and time. Also, I learned you should wait for summer to start grilling. -### Best Overall Propane +We've looked at [full-size gas grills](https://www.wired.com/2016/05/best-gas-grills/) and [charcoal grills](https://www.wired.com/2016/05/best-charcoal-grills/) in years past, but we wanted to find the best ways to get your grill on wherever you are, whatever your living situation might be. So we researched and tested a dozen new grills to see which can brat the best. -I would argue that charcoal is superior to propane if flavor is your only criteria. In an ideal world flavor would be the only criteria, but we live in a world where grilling sometimes happens after hours in Friday traffic and while you're also trying to set up a tent, inflate a mattress, and wrangle hungry children. Sometimes the convenience of propane trumps charcoal. +Be sure to check out our other [buying guides](https://www.wired.com/tag/buying-guides/), including the [Best Grilling Accessories](https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-grilling-accessories-tools/) guide, after you get your new grill. -For those times your best bet is the Weber 1200 Q grill. The Weber strikes the best balance between ease of use, cooking performance and minimizing flare ups. To test the latter I marinated some chicken in lemon juice and olive oil and laid it on the grills. Every grill here flared somewhat, but the 1200 Q (and the Coleman below) have heavy enameled cast iron grates that are closed over the actual burners, which helps keep the flaring under control. +*Updated May 2020: We've added a new apartment-friendly option, the Kenyon City Grill, and updated pricing on the rest.* -With 186 inches of cook space the 1200 Q is big enough for a family for four. It has a thermometer and some side tables to put your plates and tongs. It's also a champ at keeping a constant, even heat in pretty much any condition. One afternoon a storm blew in, but kept I grilling despite the high wind and rain. The 1200 Q just kept on cooking. +*When you buy something using the links in our stories, we may earn a small affiliate commission. [Here's how it works](https://www.wired.com/2015/11/affiliate-link-policy/). You can also support our reporting and reviewing by purchasing a __[1-year print + digital WIRED subscription for $5 (Discount)](https://subscribe.wired.com/subscribe/splits/wired/WIR_AFFILIATE?source=HCL_WIR_EDIT_HARDCODED_0_COMMERCE_AFFILIATE_ZZ)__.* -The main downside is the weight. For the cooking space it offers, the 1200 Q is big and heavy. It may be totally unfazed by weather, but it isn't the easiest to carry. If you're planning to bring it with you everywhere you go it's worth investing in the [wheeled stand for $80](https://www.weber.com/US/en/accessories/merchandise-and-outdoor-lifestyle/carts/6557.html){: rel=nofollow} (which also serves to save some space on the picnic table). +###1. Best Portable Charcoal Grill -As with its charcoal cousin, there are plenty of accessories for the 1200 Q, including a [griddle for $45](https://www.weber.com/US/en/accessories/cooking/griddles-and-planchas/6558.html){: rel=nofollow} and a nice [cover for $16](https://www.weber.com/US/en/accessories/care/covers-and-carry-bags/7110.html){: nofollow} to protect it from the elements.. +**[Weber Jumbo Joe ($70)](https://www.amazon.com/Weber-1211001-Jumbo-18-Inch-Portable/dp/B0098HR0RC/?tag=w050b-20){: rel=nofollow}** -**[Buy the Weber 1200 Q for $209 from Weber](https://www.weber.com/US/en/grills/gas-grills/q-series/51010001.html){: rel=nofollow} or [Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RFXS1Z6/){: rel=nofollow}.** +[#image: /photos/5d1c308142b8320008c20abe]|||||| -***Even Smaller Alternative**: The [Weber 1000 Q for $179](https://www.weber.com/US/en/grills/gas-grills/q-series/50060001.html){: rel=nofollow} ([Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Weber-50060001-Q1000-Liquid-Propane/dp/B00FDOONEC/){: rel=nofollow} or [Home Depot](https://www.homedepot.com/p/Weber-Q-1000-1-Burner-Portable-Propane-Gas-Grill-in-Titanium-50060001/204612517){: rel=nofollow}) is nearly identical to Weber's 1200 Q, but loses the thermometer and side tables. The result is a more compact, though still pretty heavy, grill. If you don't need the tables and want to save a few dollars this is a good way to go.* +Of all the charcoal grills I tested, the [Weber Jumbo Joe](https://www.weber.com/US/en/grills/portable-grills/jumbo-joe-series/1211001.html){: rel=nofollow} strikes the best balance of affordability, features, and ease of use. It's big enough (18.5 inches in diameter) to smoke two racks of ribs or fit burgers and corn for six people (admittedly, this was crowded) but small enough that you'll still have room in the trunk for a cooler and camping supplies. -### Best for a Couple (Propane) +It's one of the most versatile grills I tested—grilling, barbecuing, and smoking with ease. Thanks to its dual-vent system (one at the bottom, one at the top), you get the same fine-grained level of temperature control you'll find in Weber's full-size kettles. -As noted above, the best smaller charcoal option is the Weber Smokey Joe Premium. For couple and small families looking for the convenience of propane, I suggest the Coleman Roadtrip 225 Portable. It most of what the Weber 1200 Q has, but is slightly smaller and lighter. +It weighs 22 pounds and has a handle with a bar that fits over the top and keeps the kettle and lid together for easy carrying. I tossed mine in the back of my car for trips to the lake and the park; it never tipped over. The ash catcher at the bottom makes cleaning less of a hassle by allowing you to dump the excess without removing the grill grates. -The Coleman also gives you the option to use only one burner to grill just a couple burgers without draining your propane tank. Variable controls also mean you can sear veggies on one side while cooking meat a bit slower on the other side. +The Jumbo Joe has a considerable following on the internet. Fans have [added thermometers](http://olddavespo-farm.blogspot.com/search/label/Weber%20Jumbo%20Joe%20Review), fastened knobs to make it easier to open and close vents, attached [hanging ash cans](http://weberkettleclub.com/forums/weber-kettles-accessories/jumbo-joe-mods/), and come up with creative ways to cook taller items, like [beer-can chicken](https://www.bbqdryrubs.com/weber-jumbo-joe-beer-can-chicken/). -There's a grease pan to catch drips while cooking, and it's removable for easy cleaning. You also get push button ignition and 11,000 BTUs of propane grilling power. What the Coleman lacks is a thermometer. The other problem is the lack of latch on the lid. It's not enough to stop me from recommending it, but it's worth considering that carrying the Coleman requires two hands. +It's not perfect, though. If you want to do any indirect-heat cooking, you'll want to buy the [hinged grill grate for $25](https://www.amazon.com/Weber-7436-Replacement-Hinged-Cooking/dp/B000WEPHKW/){: rel=nofollow} so you can feed in fresh fuel without removing the top grill. The [$20 charcoal basket](https://www.amazon.com/Weber-7403-Char-Basket-Charcoal-Briquet/dp/B000WEMGM4/){: rel=nofollow} is also useful, and the [Kettle Pizza Kit for $115](https://www.amazon.com/Kettle-Pizza-KPB-18-2-Inch-Grills/dp/B005V95DMA){: rel=nofollow} is fun but more expensive than the grill itself. No thermometer is included, and Weber does not make a storage cover for the Jumbo Joe. -Coleman, probably best known for its stoves, has made some accessories that allow you to use half the stove as a griddle or even a regular stove burner so you can simmer beans while the hot dogs are grilling. We didn't test the accessories, but the [Griddle](https://www.coleman.com/roadtrip-swaptop-cast-iron-griddle/2000019874.html){: rel=nofollow} and [Stove Grate](https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-RoadTrip-Swaptop-Steel-Stove/dp/B00S57U6KY/){: rel=nofollow} both get high marks in other reviews around the web. +**[Weber Jumbo Joe costs $70 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Weber-1211001-Jumbo-18-Inch-Portable/dp/B0098HR0RC/?tag=w050b-20){: rel=nofollow} and [Walmart](https://goto.walmart.com/c/1305164/565706/9383?subId1=bestportablegrills&veh=aff&sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FWeber-18-Jumbo-Joe-Charcoal-Grill%2F21928087){: rel=nofollow}** -**[Buy the Coleman Roadtrip 225 Portable for $160 from Coleman](https://www.coleman.com/grills/coleman-roadtrip-225-portable-tabletop-propane-grill/Roadtrip225TableTop.html){: rel=nofollow} or [Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BLHCHX6/ref=twister_B07CV6WCJ2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1){: rel=nofollow}.** +*__Smaller Alternative:__ The [Smokey Joe Premium costs $45 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Weber-40020-Premium-14-Inch-Portable/dp/B00004RALP/?tag=w050b-20){: rel=nofollow} and [Walmart](https://goto.walmart.com/c/1305164/565706/9383?subId1=bestportablegrills&veh=aff&sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FWeber-40020-Smokey-Joe-Premium-14-Inch-Portable-Grill%2F178598853%3Fu1%3Dbestportablegrills%26oid%3D661658.1%26wmlspartner%3D*v1CWzR20JI%26sourceid%3D30230998563793919449%26affillinktype%3D10%26veh%3Daff){: rel=nofollow}. This is our top pick for anyone who doesn't need the larger Jumbo Joe. The downside to the Smokey Joe is you lose the lower vent of the Jumbo Joe, which means less temperature control. That's not a huge deal unless you're slow cooking. The Smokey Joe was also more difficult to clean out. But if you want a smaller kettle, this is a good option.* -### Best When Smoking for a Crowd +###2. Best Portable Propane Grill -While our top charcoal pick, the Weber Jumbo Joe, is a capable smoker, it's not large enough to squeeze in more than two racks of ribs, and even those will need to be cut in half. While Oklahoma Joe's Rambler is technically smaller at 218 inches of grilling space, its rectangular design lends itself to longer cuts of meat like ribs. +**[Weber Q 1200 ($209)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RFXS1Z6/?tag=w050b-20){: rel=nofollow}** -Oklahoma Joe's is well known for its full size smokers, but the Rambler is a relatively new effort to bring the power of the full size smoker to the table top. The result is mostly successful. It has a built-in thermometer, large dampers to control temperature, and is by far the most solidly constructed of all the grills here. +[#image: /photos/5d1c30edfffcb300081e637f]|||||| -Getting the Rambler ready for your first cook takes a bit more work, it has the most complex assembly of this bunch, and you'll need to season the case iron grill grates, but the results are worth it. I barbecued and smoked up some wonderful results with this grill, including some really nice smoked cauliflower I wasn't able to duplicate on the others. +If flavor is your only criteria, I would argue that [charcoal is superior to propane gas](https://www.wired.com/2013/07/charcoal-grilling-is-objectively-scientifically-better-than-gas-2/). But flavor is rarely the only factor. We don't grill in beautiful meadows under a rainbow every day. Often, we grill after-hours on a Friday while we're also trying to set up a tent, inflate a mattress, and wrangle hungry children. And that's when the convenience of propane trumps charcoal. -The downside to the Rambler is that it's heavy. If you're just going from car to picnic table that's not a big deal, but if you've got a decent walk, say down the bluffs to the beach, the Rambler gets heavy and is awkward to carry alone. If you want your smoke and your secluded spot that's a good walk from the car, grab a friend and carry the Rambler one on each side. +For those times, your best bet is the Weber Q 1200. It's big enough for a family of four and strikes the best balance between ease of use and cooking performance. It has a thermometer and some side tables to hold your plates and tongs. It's also a champ at keeping a constant, even heat in pretty much any condition. A storm blew in one afternoon, but I kept grilling despite the high wind and rain. It just kept on cooking. -**[Buy the Rambler for $149 from Oklahoma Joe's](https://www.oklahomajoes.com/rambler-tabletop-charcoal-grill){: rel=nofollow} or [Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Oklahoma-Joes-19402088-Portable-Charcoal/dp/B07JZ7YRVR){: rel=nofollow}.** +It's also good at minimizing flare-ups. To test this I marinated some chicken in lemon juice and olive oil and laid it on the grills. Every grill flared somewhat, but the Q 1200 (and the Coleman below) have heavy enameled cast-iron grates that are closed over the burners, which helps keep the flaring under control. -### Best for Last Minute Grilling Emergencies +The main downside is its weight. It may be totally unfazed by weather, but it's heavy. The [$90 wheeled stand](https://www.weber.com/US/en/accessories/merchandise-and-outdoor-lifestyle/carts/6557.html){: rel=nofollow} is worth a look if you plan to transport it a lot. Other nice accessories include the [griddle for $49](https://www.weber.com/US/en/accessories/cooking/griddles-and-planchas/6558.html){: rel=nofollow} and a [storage cover for $17](https://www.weber.com/US/en/accessories/care/covers-and-carry-bags/7110.html){: nofollow}. -If you've never cooked over infrared heat it's worth studying up a little before you dive in. Cooking over extremely high heat of infrared is very different than typical grilling. It took me a few failures—neither or which I can attribute to the grills—before I got the hang of it. The theory is simple: heat a ceramic element with flame and then let the radiant heat from the element do the actual cooking. +**[Weber Q 1200 costs $209 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RFXS1Z6/?tag=w050b-20){: rel=nofollow} and [Walmart](https://goto.walmart.com/c/1305164/565706/9383?subId1=bestportablegrills&veh=aff&sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FWeber-Q-1200-Portable-Gas-Grill%2F39601434){: rel=nofollow}** -When you're in a hurry to get dinner on the table, infrared cooking, even more so than regular propane, is your friend. Fire it up, let the heating element get to temp (about five minutes) and you have a grill capable of 500-600 degree searing. Veggies need 30 seconds a side and have beautiful grill marks. Thin steaks like flank or skirt take a mere minute or two per side and turn out incredibly juicy and flavorful. +***Smaller Alternative:** The [Weber Q 1,000 costs $179 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Weber-50060001-Q1000-Liquid-Propane/dp/B00FDOONEC/?tag=w050b-20){: rel=nofollow} and [Home Depot](https://fave.co/2TXWgB6){: rel=nofollow}. It's nearly identical to Weber's Q 1200 but loses the thermometer and side tables. The result is a more compact, though still heavy, grill. If you don't need the tables and want to save a few dollars, this is a good option.* -The best infrared option I tested with the Char-Broil X200. Char-Broil calls its infrared "TRU Infrared" and claims that it eliminates flare-ups, which is almost true. It flares less than I would have expected, and the flares don't last long, but get something good and juicy on there, marinated chicken or brats for instance, and it'll flare. +###3. Best for Apartment Dwellers -Like the Weber 1200 Q, the X200 is very well built. It's sturdy, yet only weighs 20 pounds, and the lid locks tightly. +**[Kenyon City Grill ($425)](https://www.cookwithkenyon.com/shop/city-grill/){: rel=nofollow}** -The downside to the X200 is that it can get too hot. It's difficult to do anything but sear. Turning it down means the flame, which is tiny to begin with, tends to get blown out by the slightest breeze. This is appears to be a problem with infrared in general though, not just the X200 as I had the same problem with the Solaire option mentioned below. +Not everyone has a yard, and it's increasingly common for apartments to ban open flame grills even on balconies. This is where electric grills come in. They're grilling (sort of), but without the flames. The problem is most of them are terrible. I've tried a few, including a notable celebrity brand, but this is the first to perform well enough that I can highly recommend it. It's not cheap, but if you're limited by your living situation, the City Grill is as close as you'll get to flame grilling. -Still, despite that flaw infrared will spoil you. Decide you want to grill some veggies five minutes for dinner is supposed to be done? With the X200 that's no problem. +Kenyon has been making electric grills and cookers for some time (they're popular in boats, which is part of why its made of marine grade stainless steel), but this is their first portable grill. I'm happy to report it delivers where others fail. It cooks evenly and at consistent temperatures (I was able to get up to 592 degrees off a digital thermometer). There's very little smoke, though I do suggest using it in a well ventilated area if you're indoors. -**[Char-Broil X200 for $88.79 from Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BFPMLI8){: rel=nofollow} or [Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Oklahoma-Joes-19402088-Portable-Charcoal/dp/B07JZ7YRVR){: rel=nofollow}.** +The big question is: how does the good taste? Well, not like it came off a nice charcoal grill. Sorry, you can't get that taste without charcoal. But the same principle works on the City Grill -- juices coming off whatever you're cooking, sizzle and give off tiny amounts of smoke that flavor your food as it cooks. The results are quite tasty. I grilled everything from port chops to asparagus and was quite happy with the flavors. If you want expand the City Grill's capabilities you can buy a flat top surface you can use to cook up a pancake breakfast. +At 24 pounds, and requiring electricity, the City Grill not a good choice if you want something truly portable. But if you're stuck with no way to cook over a flame, the Kenyon is well worth the money. -**Alternative: The [Solaire Anywhere for $389](https://besthot.store/anywhere/){: rel=nofollow} (or [Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Solaire-Anywhere-Portable-Infrared-Stainless/dp/B002VLYAVQ){: rel=nofollow}) is another possibility. While I enjoyed this grill and its ceramic heating surface works much better than the X200's metal surface, it is even more of a fair weather grill. I had nothing but problems with it in even the slightest breeze. The design means that wind coming from the front can easily blow out the burners. Worse, because infrared flame is so small to begin with, you might not notice that your flame is gone right away. I liked everything else about the Solaire, and the company is well-known for its full size backyard infrared options, but at this price, with this flaw, the Anywhere is a tough sell. +**[Kenyon's City Grill cost $425 at Kenyon](https://www.cookwithkenyon.com/shop/city-grill/){: rel=nofollow}** -### Testing Methods +###4. Best for Couples -Terms "grilling" and "barbecue" are often used interchangeably, which is fine, but if you get serious about cooking over flame you'll want to learn the distinction often used by enthusiasts: "grilling" usually means cooking directly over high heat, while "barbecue" typically refers to cooking over indirect heat for longer periods of time. You grill steak. You barbecue ribs. +**[Coleman Roadtrip 225 Portable Propane Grill ($150)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BLHCHX6/?tag=w050b-20){: rel=nofollow}** -To test the grills I used both methods, grilling everything from steak to salmon to corn, even kale. In fact [this recipe for grilled kale](https://www.marksdailyapple.com/sweet-and-spicy-grilled-kale-with-ginger-steak/){: rel=nofollow} is my go-to for testing how hard it is to clean a grill. It makes delicious kale, but it's very messy. +[#image: /photos/5d1c311dfffcb300081e6381]|||||| -For the charcoal options I also barbecued ribs and pulled pork. I have not tried brisket yet but I do believe it would be possible to do a smaller piece on the Jumbo Joe or the Oklahoma Joe. +For couples and small families looking for the convenience of propane, the Coleman Roadtrip 225 Portable may work better than a Weber. It's considerably lighter and mostly matches the Weber Q 1200. Coleman also gives you the option to use only one burner, so you can grill a couple of burgers without draining your propane gas tank. With variable controls you can sear veggies on one side while cooking meat more slowly on the other. -In the end all of these grills preformed well and you really can't go wrong with any of them (there definitely are some grills where you can go wrong, but I have not included any of those here). In the end, to get the best grill you need to first figure out how you cook when you're camping or out and about. +There's a grease pan to catch drips while cooking, and it's removable for cleaning. You also get push-button ignition and 11,000 BTUs of propane grilling power. What the Coleman lacks is a thermometer and a latch on the lid to let you can carry it one-handed, though these omissions don't stop me from recommending it. -### Stop using Propane Bottles +Coleman has accessories that let you use half the stove as a griddle or regular stove burner so you can simmer beans while you grill hot dogs. I enjoyed the [$35 Griddle](https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-RoadTrip-Swaptop-Cast-Griddle/dp/B00VTJHRNY/?tag=w050b-20){: rel=nofollow} for frying, and the [$35 Stove Grate](https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-RoadTrip-Swaptop-Steel-Stove/dp/B00S57U6KY/?tag=w050b-20){: rel=nofollow} (untested) gets high marks in other reviews around the web. -The ubiquitous disposable green propane bottle is convenient, but a [huge source of pollution](https://www.refuelyourfun.org/). It's illegal in many jurisdictions to throw them in the trash, though that doesn't stop many people it seems, given how many of these turn up in landfills every year. Don't be that person though. There are re-fillable [bottles available](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F9LCYRT){: rel=nofollow}, which we suggest using if you must have the smaller size canister. +**[Coleman Roadtrip 225 Portable costs $160 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BLHCHX6/?tag=w050b-20){: rel=nofollow} and [Home Depot](https://fave.co/2z8iv10){: rel=nofollow}** -If you have room the far better, and even cheaper, way to go is a small re-fillable [propane cylinder for $55](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KOLF1IQ/){: rel=nofollow}. I find, cooking outdoors over both stove and grill three meals a day, that this tank will last about two weeks. It's small and light enough to not be any more difficult to cart around than the four to six one pound bottles it replaces. -### Other Grills to consider -PARTY PAIL CHARCOAL GRILL -https://www.coleman.com/party-pail-charcoal-grill/2000023831.html?cgid=coleman-stovesandgrills-grills#start=14 +###5. Best for Grilling Emergencies -Old Smokey: https://www.oldsmokey.com/products/14-old-smokey-charcoal-grill?variant=378333031 +**[Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 ($129)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BFPMLI8){: rel=nofollow}** -Suggestions, kill this and redirect to new one: https://www.wired.com/2016/05/best-portable-grills/ +[#image: /photos/5d1c31d14f0e200008e4c6d1]|||||| + +Cooking over extremely high infrared heat is different than typical grilling. It took me a few failures—none of which I can attribute to the grills—before I got the hang of it. The theory is simple: Heat a ceramic element with flame and then let the radiant heat from the element do the actual cooking. It's not a crazy-unique concept, but "infrared" certainly makes it sound like science fiction. + +When you're in a hurry to get dinner on the table, infrared cooking is your friend. Hook up a propane tank (yes, needed), fire it up, let the heating element get to temp (about five minutes), and you have a grill capable of 500- to 600-degree searing. Veggies need 30 seconds a side and have beautiful grill marks. Thin steaks like flank or skirt take a mere minute or two per side and turn out incredibly juicy and flavorful. + +The best infrared option I tested was the Char-Broil X200. Char-Broil calls its infrared TRU Infrared and claims it eliminates flare-ups, which is almost true. It flares less than I would have expected, but if you get something good and juicy on there—marinated chicken or brats for instance—it'll flare (though they don't last long). Like the Weber Q 1200, the X200 is well built. It's sturdy yet weighs only 20 pounds, and the lid locks tightly. + +The downside is it can get too hot. It's difficult to do anything but sear. Turning it down means the flame, which is tiny to begin with, tends to get blown out by the slightest breeze. This is a problem with infrared in general, not just the X200. I had the same problem with the Solaire option mentioned below. Still, despite that flaw, infrared will spoil you. Want to grill some veggies a few minutes before dinner is supposed to be done? With the X200, that's no problem. + +**[Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 costs $129 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BFPMLI8?tag=w050b-20){: rel=nofollow} and [$135 at Walmart](https://goto.walmart.com/c/1305164/565706/9383?subId1=bestportablegrills&veh=aff&sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FChar-Broil-Grill2Go-Tru-Infrared-Portable-Gas-Grill%2F26413645){: rel=nofollow}** + +*__Alternative:__ The [Solaire Anywhere Grill costs $469 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Solaire-SOL-IR17BWR-Portable-Infrared-Stainless/dp/B01I726VKK?tag=w050b-20){: rel=nofollow}. I enjoyed this grill. Its ceramic heating surface works much better than the X200's metal surface, but even a slight breeze from the front can blow out the burners, and because the infrared flame is so small to begin with you might not notice that your flame is gone. I liked everything else about the Solaire, but it's a tough sell at this price.* + +###6. Best Grill on Wheels + +**[Coleman Roadtrip 285 Portable Grill ($230)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BLH19MX/?tag=w050b-20){: rel=nofollow}** + +[#image: /photos/5e6aa14cc0b1110009a4db21]|||||| + +The Coleman Roadtrip 285 is similar to the Roadtrip 225 above, but it's freestanding and easier to move around thanks to the wheeled dolly system. The included stand also frees up some space on the picnic table, making this a nice choice for larger gatherings. + +The inside of the Roadtrip 285 is rather different than the 225. Here there are three interwoven burners, each with their own knob for fine-grained temperature control. There are two outer burners, left and right, and then one inner burner running between them. I most often used all three at once to produce a high-temperature sear, then backed it off and let the outer burners finish cooking. + +There's a grease pan that you can slide out the back for easy cleaning, and a thermometer on the lid monitors your cooking temperatures. There's a nice [griddle accessory](https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-RoadTrip-Swaptop-Cast-Griddle/dp/B00VTJHRNY/?tag=w050b-20){: rel=nofollow} as well, which I used to make pancakes for a crowd. + +**[Coleman Roadtrip 285 Portable costs $230 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BLH19MX/?tag=w050b-20){: rel=nofollow} and [Walmart](https://goto.walmart.com/c/1305164/565706/9383?subId1=bestportablegrills&veh=aff&sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FColeman-RoadTrip-285-Portable-Stand-Up-Propane-Grill-Red%2F105430664){: rel=nofollow}** + +###7. Best Big Green Egg + +**[Big Green Egg MiniMax ($599)](https://biggreenegg.com/product/minimax-big-green-egg/){: rel=nofollow}** + +[#image: /photos/5e6aa166b550590008b553e5]|||||| + +Big Green Eggs are indeed *big*. Even the smaller [MiniMax Big Green Egg](https://biggreenegg.com/product/minimax-big-green-egg/) I tested isn't terribly portable, but if you want to smoke, grill, and bake outdoors, this ceramic cooker is a strong choice. + +The Big Green Egg is a Kamado-style cooker (Kamado is Japanese word that roughly means "stove"), which really makes it much more than a grill. The ceramic construction retains heat and turns it into a portable oven as well. The MiniMax Big Green Egg is identical to its larger cousin in nearly every way, it's just smaller. It weighs 75 pounds, making it by the far the heaviest grill I tested, but the double-handle carrying system makes it easy for two people to lift it around. The problem is that the 13-inch grilling surface of the MiniMax can really only grill for about four people. + +It's big enough to roast a chicken, sear a couple of large steaks at a time, or fit about six 12-inch skewers. But if you're doing meat and veggies for a family of four, you're going to be cooking in batches. In practice this isn't so bad. Most meats need to rest when they're done cooking anyway, giving you time to do your veggies. In my testing the Mini Big Green Egg had excellent heat control and, like the larger version, is extremely fuel efficient. + +**Big Green Egg's MiniMax costs $599 and can only be purchased in retail stores, including [Ace Hardware].(https://www.acehardware.com/big-green-egg){: rel=nofollow} You can [find a local store that carries the MiniMax here](https://biggreenegg.com/product/minimax-big-green-egg/){: rel=nofollow}** + +###Testing Methods + +The terms *grilling* and *barbecue* are often used interchangeably, which is fine, but if you get serious about cooking over flame you'll want to learn the distinction. Grilling usually means cooking directly over high heat, while barbecue typically refers to cooking over indirect heat for longer periods of time. You grill steak. You barbecue ribs. + +I used both methods to test, grilling everything from steak to salmon to corn, even kale. [This recipe for grilled kale](https://www.marksdailyapple.com/sweet-and-spicy-grilled-kale-with-ginger-steak/) is my go-to for testing how hard it is to clean a grill. It's delicious but incredibly messy. + +For the charcoal options, I also barbecued ribs and pulled pork. I have not tried brisket, but I believe it would be possible to do a smaller piece on the Weber Jumbo Joe. + +###Stop Using Propane Bottles + +The ubiquitous disposable green propane bottle is convenient, but it's a [huge source of pollution](https://www.refuelyourfun.org/). It's illegal in many jurisdictions to throw them in the trash, though that doesn't stop many people, it seems, given how many of these end up in landfills every year. Don't be that person. There are refillable [bottles available](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F9LCYRT){: rel=nofollow}, which I suggest using if you must have the smaller canister. + +If you have room, the far better, and even cheaper, way to go is a small refillable [propane cylinder for $65](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KOLF1IQ/){: rel=nofollow}. Cooking outdoors over both stove and grill three meals a day, this tank lasts me about two weeks. It's small and light enough to not be any more difficult to cart around than the four to six 1-pound bottles it replaces. + +*** +### More Great WIRED Stories +* The relentless startup [fast-tracking Ford’s self-driving cars](https://www.wired.com/story/relentless-startup-fast-tracking-fords-self-driving-cars/?itm_campaign=BottomRelatedStories_Sections_2&itm_content=footer-recirc) +* 22 *Animal Crossing* tips to [up your island game](https://www.wired.com/story/animal-crossing-new-horizons-tips/?itm_campaign=BottomRelatedStories_Sections_2&itm_content=footer-recirc) +* The weird [partisan math of vote-by-mail](https://www.wired.com/story/weird-partisan-math-vote-by-mail/?itm_campaign=BottomRelatedStories_Sections_2&itm_content=footer-recirc) +* Planes are still flying, but [Covid-19 recovery will be tough](https://www.wired.com/story/planes-flying-covid-19-recovery-tough/?itm_campaign=BottomRelatedStories_Sections_2&itm_content=footer-recirc) +* The shared visual language of [the 1918 and 2020 pandemics](https://www.wired.com/story/shared-visual-language-1918-2020-pandemics/?itm_campaign=BottomRelatedStories_Sections_2&itm_content=footer-recirc) +* 👁 AI uncovers a [potential Covid-19 treatment](https://www.wired.com/story/ai-uncovers-potential-treatment-covid-19-patients/?itm_campaign=BottomRelatedStories_Sections_2&itm_content=footer-recirc). Plus: [Get the latest AI news](https://www.wired.com/category/business/artificial-intelligence/?itm_campaign=BottomRelatedStories_Sections_2&itm_content=footer-recirc) +* ✨ Optimize your home life with our Gear team’s best picks, from [robot vacuums](https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-robot-vacuums/?itm_campaign=BottomRelatedStories&itm_content=footer-recirc) to [affordable mattresses](https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-mattresses/?itm_campaign=BottomRelatedStories&itm_content=footer-recirc) to [smart speakers](https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-google-speakers-buying-guide/?itm_campaign=BottomRelatedStories&itm_content=footer-recirc) |