Small grills come in more flavors than most people expect. Charcoal kettles bring smoky flavor, electric models suit balconies where flames are banned, and cast iron hibachis deliver intense heat in a tiny package. This guide skips propane and sticks to charcoal and electric picks. Each type has its own routine, so pick the one that matches your patience.
We chose six that cover different habits: a mini kettle, a roomier kettle, a cast iron hibachi, a portable charcoal unit, a patio electric grill and an indoor and outdoor countertop grill. We have not used these products ourselves, so confirm size, power and materials on the current listing before ordering, and check any building rules about open flame.
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What to Look For
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Fuel | Charcoal gives smoke flavor; electric is cleaner and simpler |
| Size | Match the grate area to how many people you feed |
| Vents | Adjustable vents let a charcoal grill control heat |
| Weight | Light grills travel; heavy cast iron holds heat |
| Rules | Balconies and parks may ban charcoal or open flame |
Specs at a Glance
| Product | Type | Size class | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weber Smokey Joe | Charcoal kettle | Mini | Lid vents; lock-down handle |
| Weber Jumbo Joe | Charcoal kettle | Small-medium | Adjustable vents; lid included |
| Lodge Sportsman’s Grill | Cast iron charcoal | Small | Draft door; needs seasoning |
| Cuisinart CCG-190 | Portable charcoal | Small | Lightweight; check vent details |
| Char-Broil Patio Bistro | Electric | Small | Infrared; plugs in |
| George Foreman Indoor Outdoor Grill | Electric | Small-medium | Removable stand; nonstick surface |
The 6 Best Small Grills
1. Weber Smokey Joe Silver
A tiny kettle-shaped charcoal grill with a plated steel grate, a vented lid and a handle that locks it for carrying. It has been a camping standard for years.
Suits: solo cooks and campers. Strengths: a low-running-cost classic kettle. Weaknesses: a small cooking surface. Skip it if you cook for four or more.
View Weber Smokey Joe on Amazon
2. Weber Jumbo Joe
A bigger portable kettle than the Smokey Joe, still low to the ground and built with the same kettle shape. It handles a family meal while staying compact.
Suits: small families. Strengths: more space with a kettle design. Weaknesses: not as portable as the mini. Skip it if you need a pocket-size grill.
View Weber Jumbo Joe on Amazon
3. Lodge Sportsman’s Grill
A cast iron hibachi-style charcoal grill with a hinged lid and a draft door to control air. It is heavy but holds heat very well and lasts for decades.
Suits: searing and tailgating. Strengths: cast iron heat retention. Weaknesses: weight makes it hard to haul far. Skip it if you want something light.
View Lodge Sportsman’s Grill on Amazon
4. Cuisinart CCG-190 Portable Charcoal Grill
A compact, lightweight charcoal grill with a tabletop design and a cooking grate. It is aimed at picnics and small gatherings.
Suits: picnics and beaches. Strengths: easy carry. Weaknesses: thinner materials than premium units. Skip it if you want a long-lasting cast build.
View Cuisinart CCG-190 on Amazon
5. Char-Broil Patio Bistro Electric Grill
An electric outdoor grill on a small stand, using infrared cooking and plug-in power. It is a common answer for balconies that do not allow flames.
Suits: balconies with open flame bans. Strengths: no charcoal or propane to handle. Weaknesses: needs an outdoor outlet nearby. Skip it if you cook far from power.
View Char-Broil Patio Bistro on Amazon
6. George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Grill
An electric countertop-style grill with a removable stand so it can sit on a table or go outside. It has a large nonstick plate for its size.
Suits: apartments and patios. Strengths: smoke control and flexible use. Weaknesses: no smoky flavor. Skip it if you want real char.
View George Foreman Indoor Outdoor Grill on Amazon
Care and Setup
- Empty cooled ashes before the next cook to keep air flowing.
- Brush grates while hot and oil them lightly.
- Season cast iron with a thin coat of oil after cleaning.
- Unplug electric grills and wipe the plates once cool.
- Store charcoal in a dry container with a lid.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Lighting charcoal in an enclosed space.
- Moving a hot grill before it cools.
- Skipping the vents, which limits heat control.
- Using a charcoal grill under a covered balcony.
- Leaving charcoal exposed to rain, which makes it hard to light.
- Crowding the grate so food cannot cook evenly.
Small Grill FAQ
Which small grill gives the best flavor?
Charcoal models give the most smoke and char. Electric models are convenient but milder in flavor.
Can I use an electric grill on a balcony?
Often yes, but check your building rules and use an outdoor-rated extension cord.
Are hibachis worth the weight?
If you value searing and durability, yes. If you need to carry it far, a lighter pick is better.
What do I need beyond the grill?
A chimney starter, tongs and heat-safe gloves round out a charcoal setup.
The Short Version
For the classic mini kettle, the Weber Smokey Joe. For more room, the Weber Jumbo Joe. For cast iron searing, the Lodge Sportsman’s. For an easy carry, the Cuisinart CCG-190. For no-flame balconies, the Char-Broil Patio Bistro. For indoor and outdoor use, the George Foreman.