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September is the start of meteorological fall and you know what that means – it's tailgating season! There's nothing quite like the perfect combination of grilling, beers and cheers as you celebrate your favorite team with friends and family in an epic parking lot party.

And it’s the perfect time to gear up for those cooler temperatures. Preparation is key to victory after all, even if your team doesn't always deliver. So load up on your winter fan gear, snag a popup tent to battle unpredictable weather and splurge on a handy portable cooler. The heart of any great tailgate? A reliable, portable grill that can handle everything from pregame burgers to victory brats.

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The Great Tailgating Debate: Charcoal Or Gas?

It’s a safe bet that charcoal has long been considered the traditionalists' choice when it comes to grilling. Between the smoky flavor and slow cooking techniques, the burgers and hotdogs from a charcoal grill are fan favorites during any tailgating season. But that doesn’t necessarily rule out gas and electric options depending on the weather, power options and your preferred cooking times. Here are a few pros and cons to consider before you purchase a new tailgating grill.

Charcoal Grills

Flavor Profile: Charcoal offers the most authentic smoky flavor

Pros:

• Reaches higher temperatures for searing
• Generally more affordable than gas grill options
• No need to worry about propane tank levels

Cons:

• Longer setup and heat-up time
• Requires more attention during cooking
• Weather-dependent (wind and rain are problematic)
• Charcoal and lighter fluid required

Gas Or Electric Grills

Flavor Profile: Natural taste of meat usually without smoky flavors

Pros:

• Fast setup and quick start
• Uniform heat distribution, temperature control and monitoring
• No ash or cleanup mess
• Works in most weather conditions (except extremely cold temperatures)
• Ideal for novice grillers

Cons:

• Requires propane tank or portable power station
• More expensive
• Heavier and bulkier
• Lacks traditional smoky flavor

Tailgating Grills: Portability And Setup

If portability and ease of setup are important factors for your tailgating grill, there’s a few key differences between charcoal and gas grills that might make your final decision even easier.

Charcoal grills:

• Size and weight: Typically lighter and more compact, easier to transport in smaller vehicles
• Setup speed: Plan for 20-30 minutes of setup and heating time
• Accessories: Requires charcoal bags and lighter fluid

Gas and electric grills:

• Size and weight: Heavier, may require trucks or trailers to haul depending on size
• Setup speed: Easy set up and 10 minute heating time
• Accessories: Requires propane tank and gas connection, or portable power station

Best Tailgating Grills of 2025

Whether you’re a grill master traditionalist or prefer more efficient entertaining, you can’t go wrong investing in a tailgating grill this season. From tabletop charcoal grills to gas and electric grills with their own sturdy stands, we’re breaking out some fan-favorite options based on our testing, grill functionality and features, price point and reviewer ratings.

1. Best Portable Charcoal Grill: Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill (18 Inch)
2. Best Charcoal Grill With Stand: Weber Jumbo Joe Premium Black Charcoal Grill (22 Inch)
3. Best Tabletop Gas Grill: Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Portable Gas Grill
4. Best Cast Iron Grill: Lodge Sportsman's Cast Iron Pro Grill
5. Best Value Electric Grill: Elite Gourmet EMG6505G Indoor Electric BBQ Grill (14 Inch)
6. Best Outdoor Electric Grill: Ninja Woodfire 7-in-1 Electric Grill
7. Best Small Space Electric Grill With Stand: Cuisinart Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill

1. Best Portable Charcoal Grill: Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill (18 Inch)

Price: $85 at Amazon; $89.99 at Weber

Features:

• Compact and lightweight
• Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl for heat retention without rusting or peeling
• Lid lock doubles as lid holder
• Dampers to control the temperature and help extinguish coals
• Plated steel cooking grate

With over 4.7 stars and glowing reviews, the Weber 18-inch Charcoal Grill is a standout and affordable option for any tailgating season. Easy portability, decent grill grate size, solid construction and functionality round out our overall top pick.

Many reviewers call it “durable and spacious” and the “best grill” for vacationing and tailgating. One happy reviewer has used it to grill everything from veggies and burgers to brats and pork chops, and mentioned it is even suitable for some higher-temperature smoking if handled correctly. It’s ideal for a family looking to get a little extra flavor without the hassle of a sizable gas grill.

One reviewer said, “The best part is how easily portable it is. We brought it to the park all summer long, you simply lift it into your trunk and it's not [too] big, in the way, or bothersome at all. The lid can fit snugly under the handle making it sturdy to carry.”

As for complaints, one noted its size makes it a little too short to just place on the ground, but is somewhat awkward on a regular size table. You might need to invest in a camp table. Others complained that the kits were missing bolts and washers.

2. Best Charcoal Grill With Stand: Weber Jumbo Joe Premium Black Charcoal Grill (22 Inch)

Price: $99 at Walmart and The Home Depot

Features:

• 22-inch cooking area
• Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl for heat retention without rusting or peeling
• Rust-resistant aluminum ash catcher
• Includes lid hook and glass-reinforced nylon handle
• All-weather wheels

If you’re looking for a charcoal grill that is portable (with its own stand), and just a little bit bigger, give the Weber 22-inch Charcoal Grill a peek. It’s a very similar option as the smaller tabletop option above, with 4.6-stars and over 1,400 ratings on Walmart.

Many people raved saying it works well with a large capacity cooking area and it works efficiently with no frills, so most customers agree you can’t go wrong with the Weber brand. As one reviewer on Walmart mentioned, “We have always had a Weber Charcoal grill… About three years ago we bought an off-brand grill that did not hold up like the Weber did. We replaced that grill with [this] new Weber.”

Many mentioned it’s a great grill option for the price point, but for complaints, many noted it was difficult to assemble especially for just one person. Others noted some missing parts as well.

3. Best Tabletop Gas Grill: Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Portable Gas Grill

Price: $279, was $329 at Amazon and Weber.com

Features:

• Propane gas grill up 8,500 BTU
• Push button ignition system (1 AA battery included)
• Cast aluminum construction, high-dome lid and integrated lid thermometer
• Pull-out grease pan
• Two folding work tables
• Uses disposable 16.4 oz LP cylinder, can accommodate 20 lb. fuel tank when using adapter hose

The third Weber on our list, it simply outperformed some of its competitors when it comes to quality, reliability and heat distribution. There were some slightly more budget-friendly options we researched, but enough reviewers seemed disappointed with their experience that we could not include them in this list.

So with 4.7-stars and over 8,000 global ratings, customers find this an easy camping solution for all of their grilling needs. Easy to assemble, this compact tabletop Weber Propane Gas Grill came recommended for its ease of cleaning and cooking performance. One reviewer called it “the perfect portable” while another called it the “grill of my dreams.” Reviewers mentioned it’s important to get it hot with the lid down before popping on your food.

One mentioned it’s a little heavier than the Weber charcoal counterparts, so it might be more cumbersome to travel with, but once in place, it works like a dream. As for other complaints, some felt like it did not last as long as the older models used to, and many mentioned the temperature and flame control is tricky to maintain.

4. Best Cast Iron Grill: Lodge Sportsman's Cast Iron Pro Grill

Price: $149.90 at Amazon and Lodge Cast Iron

Features:

• Removable grill gate
• Slide-out ash drawer for heat and airflow control
• Steel hook and carry handles
• Made in the US, non-toxic, PFOA and PTFE-free materials according to the company
• Slow to heat but retains heat longer, ideal for pan frying and roasting

This is a ‘hear us out’ kind of grill – heavy duty and hefty, this Lodge Sportsman’s Cast Iron Pro Grill isn’t going to be quite as portable, but it will be durable. If you’re a cast iron lover and don’t want to settle for a flimsy griddle, this hibachi-style grill set is designed to make all of your superior tailgating and camping dreams come true.

It’s a four-piece design, including removable grill gate and handles, and the slide-out ash drawer can be used for clean up and airflow control. It comes pre-seasoned with vegetable oil, and it weighs just over 33 pounds.

Reviewers find it well-made, durable, functional and easy to clean. It’s large enough for a couple of burgers and vegetables at one time, so for a small family it will get the job done. One reviewer noted that after going through a few Weber’s, they were ready for something new, and this “all-American hibachi” was just the ticket.

Another reviewer called it a “tuna-searing masterpiece”, going on to say, “This thing is amazing. It gets extremely hot. Hot enough to heavily sear a tuna loin while leaving the inside raw. This was exactly what I wanted and I'm really stoked to use this in the future. [It works] great, fast cook time, and nice sturdy weight.”

For complaints, some felt the grilling surface was too small, and arrived missing a few parts to put together. Others noted that it cannot be left outside and doesn’t come with a cover, so it could rust.

5. Best Value Electric Grill: Elite Gourmet EMG6505G Indoor Electric BBQ Grill (14 Inch)

Price: $39.99 at Amazon (11, 12 or 14 inch)

Features:

• Non-stick surface and removable grease tray
• Removable thermostat control with 5 adjustable settings (195-445 degrees)
• Tempered glass lid
• Fast, even heating area
• Dishwasher-safe parts
• 1 year warranty

Beginner-grillers unite: Why make things hard when it can be so easy? If you don’t have a lot of outdoor space, bring the grill indoors with this Elite Gourmet Indoor Electric Grill – and it’s only $40. So if you prefer the grilled flavor without the hassle of a charcoal grill, we might suggest taking a look at this handy accessory.

With 4.4-stars and over 12,000 company reviews, customers agree it’s good value for the money, cooks well, and with three different size options, it can accommodate a variety of food options. One reviewer called it the “perfect grill”, saying it was a good size to cook an entire meal for two people. Since it’s non-stick, it’s easy to clean and dishwasher safe.

Another said they swapped out their George Foreman for this grill with a higher heat option, and with the glass cover, any smoky cooking residue can be controlled in the house. Another agreed that it’s not entirely smokeless but with the cover it’s easier to control.

For complaints, some felt the non-stick covering doesn’t last long, and it’s not as smokeless as the company claims. Others say it feels cheap, and some noted damage during shipping.

6. Best Outdoor Electric Grill: Ninja Woodfire 7-in-1 Electric Grill

Price: $299.99 at Walmart; $345.95, was $369.99 at Amazon

Read our full review of the Ninja Woodfire Grill

Features:

• Corded electric grill, weighs 31 pounds
• Works as a grill, smoker and air fryer
• Can use pellets to add barbecue smoky flavor to foods
• Weather-resistant, and with cover can be stored outdoors year-round
• Optional accessories include stand, crisper basket and grill cover

I speak from personal (extensive) experience using the Ninja Woodfire Electric Grill, and it’s husband-approved. This handy grill has lasted us multiple years with a cover while outdoors in every weather condition imaginable. While it suffers working in temperatures under 30 degrees, it otherwise will crank out some of the best grilled food you can imagine. It heats up quickly and efficiently, and the removable grill plate and grease catcher is easy to clean.

If you miss the traditional smoky flavor derived from a charcoal grill, the pellet smoking option is a great alternative. It adds a smooth scent and light flavor using the convection fan to circulate the heat and smoke around the food. And with a separate crisper basket, you can air fry sides and vegetables on the grill.

Reviewers agree, noting it’s easier to use than traditional grills and delivers consistent results. The nonstick basket and grill make cleanup a breeze. “You want this,” declared one reviewer. Another confirmed saying, “This is the most amazing grill [and] smoker we have ever had, and we have had many. It’s not bulky, great for camping, easy to operate and really easy to clean. Our steaks had [the] most incredible flavor, we highly recommend and we will never go back to anything else.”

As for complaints, many did not like the thermometer, others had some issues with it breaking down early. It is quite pricey compared to other options on our list, but in my experience, this grill has lasted many years without any extra upkeep.

7. Best Small Space Electric Grill With Stand: Cuisinart Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill

Price: $149.99 at Amazon

Features:

• Holds up to 12 burgers at once, according to company
• 6 ft. power cord
• Nonstick surface
• 5 temperature settings from 350 to 550 degrees
• Grease collection cup
• Can be used on the stand or lift off to use on tabletop surface

For those with limited patio space (especially for our apartment dwellers), the Cuisinart Electric Grill doesn't take up too much room, comes with its own stand and won’t generate as much smoke as a regular charcoal or propane grill.

The company description describes it as useful both inside and outside since it’s an electric grill (though expect some grilling smoke and grease). It can either be placed on the stand, or can be taken apart and used as a tabletop electric grill option instead.

Most reviewers on Amazon agree it’s easy utility, assembly and general functionality make it a great choice for those with limited space options. One reviewer said, “We live in a condo complex, and the HOA does not allow charcoal grills. I took a gamble on this electric grill after watching several demo and user review videos on YouTube. This thing is great. Sure, it is not the same as a charcoal or gas grill or smoker, but it does allow me to cook outside and get some good smoky grill action.”

Another called it a “great substitute for the big ole’ Weber” when you only need to cook for a few people, able to handle six burgers with no issues and “hard to beat for the price.”

As for complaints, some felt it is made a little too cheaply, with some noticing the non-stick materials flaking early on, and that the stand is a little flimsy. Others noted that it does not seem to get as hot as expected.

How We Made Our Decision

First-hand testing

One of our top picks included the Ninja Woodfire Grill due to my own fairly extensive use. I’ve owned the grill for many years, and it’s held up under almost every weather condition. I’ve tested a variety of meat types and cooking options, all with great success. I wouldn’t put my personal stamp of approval on the product without such longtime testing under my belt.

Functionality

When pulling together our best-selling list of portable tailgating grills, we were looking at a few different performance criteria: temperature range, heating functionality and efficiency, power type (including charcoal, gas and electric) and materials used.

Price

We love a good deal, but when it comes to appliances, sometimes the age-old adage “you get what you pay for” is all too true. We wanted to keep our picks within a reasonable average price point, along with a few budget-friendly options for those who may not necessarily need to use their grill all the time.

Reviews

We let the reviewers speak for themselves and we strive to highlight the pros and cons of each product based on user feedback and the feature list. If a product has few (or no) verified reviewers, or the complaints outweigh the purpose and price of the product, we won’t feature it in our lists.

Price accurate and item in stock at time of publish.