Thinking of having a small gathering of friends and family this weekend? Then, choosing to grill some juicy burgers and roasted vegetables can be a great way to entice around. One may think of buying gas or pellet grills as they are traditional ones many tend to choose. But, if one is a beginner or is looking for a smaller option, then electric grills can be a big difference. In electric grills, one will save money and effort as well. There are the best small electric grills that one can find in the market these days. These compact-sized grills are perfect for kitchens, outdoor gardens, RVs, apartment balconies, and picnic tables as well.
Here is a detailed guide to finding the small electric grills for one's homes and garden.
Model | Our rating | Max power, Watt | Burgers cooked ot once | Warranty | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
George Foreman GRP0004R
 | 7.5 | 1440 | 2 | 3Y |  |
Cusimax ‎RG200
 | 7.5 | 1500 | 3 | 1Y |  |
Cusimax Smokeless Grill
 | 7.5 | 1500 | 3 | 1Y |  |
George Foreman GRP4842P Evolve
 | 8.2 | 1440 | 5 | 3Y |  |
George Foreman GRP0004B
 | 8.2 | 1440 | 2 | 3Y |  |
George Foreman GRD6090B
 | 8.1 | 1440 | 4 | 3Y |  |
Ninja Foodi AG301 5-in-1
 | 8.9 | 1760 | 4 | 1Y |  |
Ninja Foodi FG551 XL 6-in-1
 | 8.8 | 1760 | 4 | 1Y |  |
Swissmar Classic  | 7.5 | 1200 | 6 | 1Y |  |
George Foreman GRP4842P Evolve   Max Power, Watt: 1,440 Cooking Area, sq. in.: 128 Burgers cooked at once: 5 Warranty: 3 years Made in: China  |
George Foreman GRP0004B   Max Power, Watt: 1,440 Cooking Area, sq. in.: 81 Burgers cooked at once: 2 Warranty: 3 years Made in: China  |
George Foreman GRD6090B   Max Power, Watt: 1,440 Cooking Area, sq. in.: 90 Burgers cooked at once: 4 Warranty: 3 years Made in: China  |
Ninja Foodi AG301 5-in-1   Max Power, Watt: 1,760 Cooking Area, sq. in.: 100 Burgers cooked at once: 4 Warranty: 1 year Made in: China  |
Ninja Foodi FG551 XL 6-in-1   Max Power, Watt: 1,760 Cooking Area, sq. in.: 108 Burgers cooked at once: 4 Warranty: 1 year Made in: China  |
George Foreman GRP0004R   Max Power, Watt: 1,440 Cooking Area, sq. in.: 81 Burgers cooked at once: 2 Warranty: 3 years Made in: China  |
Cusimax ‎RG200   Max Power, Watt: 1,500 Cooking Area, sq. in.: 112 Burgers cooked at once: 3 Warranty: 1 year Made in: China  |
Cusimax Smokeless Grill   Max Power, Watt: 1,500 Cooking Area, sq. in.: 112 Burgers cooked at once: 3 Warranty: 1 year Made in: China  |
Swissmar Classic   Max Power, Watt: 1,200 Cooking Area, sq. in.: 133 Burgers cooked at once: 6 Warranty: 1 year Made in: China  |
Why Choose Small Electric Grills?
Whether one is planning to have a grilling party outdoors or indoors, choosing the right grill can make or break the process of setting up a party. Grills come in various types, like gas grills, wood pellet grills, and electric grills. There was a time when people used to think that wood grills were the most authentic ones. But, with time, many have changed their mindset. One of the biggest reasons behind this changed mindset is the hassle and the cost. Wood pellets and gas is expensive, and maintaining a gas and pellet grill is quite tiring.
So, if one is new to the game of BBQ, then choosing electric grills is the best thing to do. Here are some reasons why choosing electric grills is a perfect choice:
- Compact: small electric grills are small in size, which means one can keep them anywhere one wants. One can place them in outdoor settings and indoor spaces by simply picking them up. No hassle and no worries as they fit perfectly on smaller spaces and tables.
- No fuel: arranging pellets and gas can be added headache at times. Electric grills have no issue as such. Simply connect the plug to the enteric outlet, and the grill is ready to cook up a storm. Having no added fuel means not taking care of the fuel, Refilling, and cleaning the fuel tanks.
- No harmful smoke: fuel like wood and gas can give out harmful smoke while cooking, adding to air pollution. Also, these grills are not indoor friendly for these reasons only.
- Versatile: most of the time, electric grills are known for their versatile features. In many models, one can make grilled meat and vegetables and broil, bake, braise, and roast. Many also provide features like pancake and waffle making and dehydrating.
- Convenient: simply connect the grills and start cooking; no need to check the fuel, buy fuel and spend time cleaning the fuel as well. Electric grills are super convenient and thus are a small party and BBQ gathering friendly.
- Cost-effective: buying fuel and fuel grills like pellets and propane ones can be expensive. Those who are looking to buy something that pocket friendly should choose small electric grills. These grills tend to do the job and also help in saving a lot of money.
Factors To Consider Before Buying Electric Grills
In the current market scenario, there are many electric grill models available, and every one of them has got some different features to set them apart. These features are bound to confuse a buyer, and it is not right to purchase a confused mindset. So the best thing to do is know the right details about an electric grill before buying them.
Consider the following helpful factors when buying an electric grill:
Construction Material
When the construction material is in question, what it means is the material used to make the grill. So the first thing that they should check is if the grill has protection from rust and decay. If the customer wants an electric grill that they can continue to use even after 10 years, then it is best to go for the tempered steel models. They usually have a long life and can withstand regular usage.
For people who want an electric grill that can be used regularly and only expects it to work perfectly for few years, then cast iron should do the job.
Shape and Size of the Grill
It is important to consider the shape and size of the grill when purchasing it because when one moves it around and decides to use it indoors, the size of the grill should be compact.
The too big or heavy grill will be a hassle to move around and may not even fit on the kitchen countertop. One of the reasons why people look to buy an electric grill is because of its portability. Thus, it should be of the right dimension to not break their back moving it around.
Type of Grilling
The type of grilling that one mostly does also will be a deciding factor for buying a grill. Some grills have a very high temperature, while others have a moderate range of temperature. So, the buyer needs to decide beforehand whether they want hot and quick, low and moderate, or both. Since the temperature is everything in barbecuing, it is important to check the warmth and temperature control in a grill.
The more control the user has on the grill's temperature, the better it is for the cooking as it increases the range of things they can cook on it.
Warranty Type and Duration
With electronics, one never knows when it will break down, so it is best to have a proper warranty on the appliances. The same logic applies to electric grills. When buying an electric grill, make sure to look for the model that has the right warranty that covers a broad variety of damages and is active for a longer time. This factor should, especially, be considered if the buyer is going to use the grill regularly. So, do not just look for the features and the grill's design but also a proper manufacturer's warranty.
Apartment Grill
There is nothing wrong with enjoying barbecue events in an apartment or condo. To not violate the fire restrictions, use a portable electric grill. Since these grills do not use actual fire, there is no risk of flare-ups. Another benefit of these grills is that they can be used both indoors and outdoors. So, during the rainy and cold season, have a grilling night inside, and during nice summer nights, a balcony barbecuing will help make more friends.
But still, to be safe, follow these safety steps when using a grill in an apartment:
- Remember to keep the grill clean, especially if it is a charcoal or gas grill, so there is no risk of flare-ups.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
- When grilling in the balcony, do not place the grill underneath the eaves or any hanging material.
- During the time the grill is being used, do not lose sight of it. Pay full attention to it and always have somebody watching it.
- Keep the pets and children away from the grill.
- Use heat-protective gloves and tools that are heat-proof.
Tabletop Electric Grill
Electric grills are a very convenient variety, but tabletop electric grills are even more user-friendly. One of the best things about these grills is that they can be taken on picnics, camping, or tailgating. These tabletop electric grills are also a very good choice for apartments. The tabletop grills are portable and of compact size but still have a decent cooking area to serve even large crowds. Compared to the traditional backyard, these tabletop electric grills are also very budget-friendly. These grills are an example that one does not need to spend a lot to own a grill.
Some of the advantages of using tabletop electric grills are:
- Portability: the small and compact size makes it easy to carry these tabletop grills at different places. Also, one will not need to carry charcoal or a gas tank with them.
- Easy to clean: compared to the traditional grills, the tabletop grills are easier to clean. Firstly, because it is electrical and there is no residue ash to clean. Secondly, the nonstick pans and disposable drip pans reduce any other mess.
- Both indoor and outdoor use: with these grills, one will not have to wait for a good weather condition to enjoy a barbecue. They can install it indoors and still have grilling events.
Electric Hibachi Grills
The term "hibachi" has been in use for a long term. It was first used for a certain type of Japanese styled cooking technique. In this technique, they used a bowl of burning coal, placed a grill over it, and cooked food. This is why the term "hibachi" actually translates to "fire bowl."
In today's modernized culture, hibachi has been turned electrical. It has many more advanced features and is safer than directly handling burning hot coal. The meaning of "hibachi" has now become broader. It means flat iron plate, and it is also used to refer to gas griddles, planchas, or teppanyaki grills.
Food Cooked on a Hibachi
Even if hot coal is not used for hibachi-style cooking, the heat intensity is still the same. Food cooked on hibachi cooks very quickly so, one needs to pay proper attention to avoid it getting burned or slipping through the grill grates.
The electric grill is perfect for cooking seafood, lean meats like chicken, and small steak pieces. One can also cook various veggies over the hibachi grill; make sure that they are not cut too thin and small to fall through.
Also, the hibachi grills do not have a covering on top, so cooking thick meat pieces will not be a wise decision.
Best Grill for Apartment Balcony
No one should be deprived of enjoying a nice cooking session over a grill, even the people who live in apartments and condos. They can buy small electric grills that will fit perfectly on their balcony. With all the restrictions in an apartment building, an electric grill will be the best choice for enjoying a nice barbecue on the balcony with the neighbors and family.
The following factors make a grill best for an apartment balcony:
- Size: It quite obvious that when choosing a grill for a balcony, try to keep the size small and compact. Having an oversized grill will not be a practical purchase and may also be dangerous in the limited space.
- Build quality: A balcony grill may not be as durable as a full-size backyard grill, but still, it should be able to handle continuous usage. The design of eth frill should be well put together, and the material should be anti-rust and anti-decay.
- Stand/table: For balcony grills, there is a possibility that the user will need a stand to keep the grill on top of it when cooking. If they are moving the grill around a lot, then look for a stand with wheels.
- Fuel type: Most people buy electric grills for balconies, but if they want, they can go for charcoal, propane, and natural gas grills also. But remember that the grills that require actual fire cannot be used inside the apartment.
Countertop Electric Grill
With modernization, the grills have also become more user-friendly and modern. Currently, electric grills are dominating the grill market. People are openly adapting to cooking on the smokeless electric grill and prefer it over the charcoal and gas grills. And because these electric grills also come in portable sizes that can be used indoors, they are gaining more popularity among people living in apartments.
People install these portable electric grills on their kitchen counters and enjoy a safer, smokeless grilling experience. And because these countertop electric grills are safe to use indoors, one can enjoy barbecued food throughout the year.
The heating element of these grills is embedded in the cooking area, and the disposable drip pans easily catch all the excess oil. This mechanism causes less mess and keeps the food hygienic. The use of electricity for cooking means no risk of flare-ups.
The countertop electric grills come in two varieties - open grills and contact grills. The open grills are more close to outdoor grills feature-wise. It has a single grate. As for the contact grills, they have two grates.
One can make all the delicious dishes on a traditional grill on the countertop electric grill. Depending on the manufacturer and model, these grills come with many useful features, making the cooking experience better.
Here are the 10 best small electric grills that one can invest in:
George Foreman GRP0004B
Specifications
- Dimensions: 17.25 X 12.05 X 6.22 in
- Weight: 4 lbs
- Material of grate: nonstick coated grates
- Surface area: 72 sq. in.
- Fuel type: electric
George Foreman GRP0004B is one of the best small-sized electric grills that one can invest in. the ceramic coated grill plates and grates are perfect for cooking meat and vegetables. The heat spread evenly. The nonstick grates help in better and even cooking.
Pros:
Cons:
Bottom Line
If one is looking for a small and ergonomic grill in design and size, then this electric grill is a perfect choice. It is compact and has loads of features that will allow a better cooking experience for beginners and experts.
George Foreman GRP0004R
Specifications
- Dimensions: 17 X 12 X 6 in
- Weight: 8.2 lbs
- Material of grate: nonstick coated grates
- Surface area: 72 sq. in.
- Fuel type: electric
The George Foreman GRP0004R is a small and stylish grill that good for small kitchens and small garden parties. This electric grill has a surface area of 72 sq., which is perfect for making up to 5 servings. The temperature range up to 500 degrees is good for cooking meat and vegetables. One can bake and grille easily.
The plates are slanted and help remove the fat up to 42 percent from the meat, making the food healthier. The grates are coated in George Foreman coating of the nonstick. This gives more life to the grates, increases durability, avoids sticking of food, and a better spread of heat while cooking. There are LED lights as an indicator while cooking for better control. The plates are removable and thus helps in the easy cleanup.
Pros:
Cons:
Bottom Line
The GRP0004R is a model made for buyers who look for compact grills. This grill is small and effective as per the features provided. The cooking becomes easier as the LED lights and temperature control allow better adjustment.
George Foreman GRD6090B
Specifications
- Dimensions: 15.55 X 7.95 X 13.7 in
- Weight: 13.7 lbs
- Material of grate: nonstick coated grates
- Surface area: 90 sq. in.
- Fuel type: electric
George Foreman GRD6090B is a 90 sq. in plate size grill perfect for indoor grilling and small outdoor party friendly. The shape and design of the grill are compact that is easy to store, carry and set up on grilling tables.
This appliance's grills have a nonstick layer covering, which avoids sticking meat on the grates. The slant of the grates helps in draining a major amount of fat from the meat. Also, this grill has settings that help in reducing the smoke emission while cooking. This is quite effective while cooking indoors.
Pros:
Cons:
Bottom Line
George Foreman GRD6090B is a good small electric grill that is useful in making small servings. Some features make cooking a better experience. One can remove the grease from meat, and the control panel helps adjust the temperature.
Ninja Foodi AG301 5-in-1
Specifications
- Dimensions: 17 x 14 x 11 inches
- Weight: 14.5 pounds
- Grate material: nonstick porcelain-coated grill and basket
- Fuel type: electric
- Temperature range: 500 Fahrenheit
Ninja Foodi AG301 5-in-1 is the perfect choice for those looking to cook using the same appliance in different ways. One can save money by buying this grill, as it can be used to grill, bake, dehydrate, air fry, and roast all in one. It is a versatile yet small grill that is perfect for one's kitchen.
The plates are nonstick coated, and the 4-quart basket for air frying is quite useful. The temperature range goes up to 500 degrees, which is perfect for roasting and grilling meat. There is also a hot air cyclone that allows easy air frying without using much oil. The control panel is also useful in adjusting the settings whenever required.
Pros:
Cons:
Bottom Line
George Foreman GRD6090B is a good small electric grill that is useful in making small servings. Some features make cooking a better experience. One can remove the grease from meat, and the control panel helps adjust the temperature.
Ninja Foodi FG551 XL 6-in-1
Specifications
- Dimensions: 15.7 x 16.5 x 11.05 inches
- Weight: 22.44 pounds
- Wattage: 1760 watts
- Grate material: steel grates with a nonstick coating of porcelain
- Fuel type: electricity
- Temperature range: up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
Those looking for an effective appliance that works as a grill and can be used to cook various other types of food items should settle for this 6 in 1 appliance. One can roast, grill, braise, bake, dehydrate, and air fry using this small electric grill. This grill is known to save space on the kitchen counter can save money as well.
This multiple usage grill is quite effective in the cooking process as there is a control panel that helps adjust the temperature. There is a smart thermometer to help control the temperature. The XL basket and plates help to make bigger servings. The smoke reducing feature of the grill is also quite helpful in keeping the indoors smoke-free.
Pros:
Cons:
Bottom Line
Ninja Foodi FG551 LX 6-in-1 is a useful, versatile, and ergonomic grill for indoor grilling sessions. One can cook in 6 different ways, saving money by not buying different appliances for the kitchen.
Cusimax ‎RG200
Specifications
- Dimensions: 20.39 X 13.39 X 8.5 in
- Weight: 14.48 lbs
- Material of grate: nonstick coated grates
Climax RG 200 is a small electric grill that perfectly fits the kitchen table and the outdoor grilling table. One can use the grill for cooking different food types for a small gathering. The plates have nonstick coating avoiding any damage to the grates. Also, the drip pan collects the grease, and the smoke-reducing feature helps keep the smoke away.
Pros:
Cons:
Bottom Line
Cusimax RG200 is a good-looking small electric grill that is quite modern in looks. One can use the grill for cooking a small feast for the family and friends easily. The features are useful and good for the money spent.
Cusimax ‎Smokeless Grill
Specifications
- Dimensions: 20.39 X 13.39 X 8.5 in
- Weight: 14.48 lbs
- Material of grate: nonstick coated grates
Climax smokeless grill is a good option for buying a small appliance for the kitchen that fits perfectly on the kitchen table. The turbo smoke extractor of the grill helps in keeping the smoke away while one is cooking. The size of the electric grill is quite small, and it fits perfectly on any table, Picnic space, and even in RVs and other places.
The LED panels help in better adjustments while cooking. The heating tubes of U shape are good to keep the heat spread evenly. This helps in better cooking of the meat from all sides. The temperature range goes up to 500 degrees that are good for cooking different food items easily. The perforation in the grill plates helps drain the fat easily into the drip pan for better cleaning.
Pros:
Cons:
Bottom Line
Cusimax smokeless grill is a good option for those who want a compact appliance for picnics and parties. This grill can cook meat and vegetables perfectly. The feature like smokeless feature and LED lights and control panel is quite useful.
George Foreman GRP4842P Evolve
Specifications
- Dimensions: 9 X 15.5 X 13.5 in
- Grate material: ceramic coated grates
- Fuel type: electric
- Temperature range: up to 500 degrees
Those looking to buy an effective yet pocket-friendly option should choose this grill. George Foreman GRP4842P is a cost-effective and good-looking grill option in which one can cook vegetables and meat along with some waffles as well. The temperature range of the grill is up to 450 degrees. And the searing button helps in searing the meat at 500 degrees.
The grill grates are slanted at an angle so that the fat gets drained while cooking and gets collected in the drip pan. The grates are covered in the ceramic coating, which helps spread the heat well and clean the grill.
Pros:
Cons:
Bottom Line
George Foreman GRP4842P is a small grill for a small gathering. It is effective as per the price range and also has features that make cooking easier. The grill is good for smaller kitchens and spaces that are not too spacious.
Swissmar Classic
Specifications
- Dimensions: 16.5 X 9.6 X 5.6 in
- Material of grate: cast aluminum grill plate with nonstick
For those looking to add an appliance to their kitchen that can double up as raclette and as a grill, this grill is the best option for the buyers. The Swissmar Classic is a versatile and useful grill option. One can make pancakes, melt cheese, make quesadillas and make some crepes as well on this grill. Not only that, the grill is effective in grilling meats, vegetables, and fruits.
This grill comes with 8 nonstick spatulas and 8 raclettes for melting cheese. The 1200 watt is the maximum power one can get. This is not enough for searing the meat, but it is good for baking and grilling the meat and vegetables. The plates of the grills are coated in nonstick layering. The durability of the plates is quite high, and the heat spreads evenly on the plates for better and even cooking.
Pros:
Cons:
Bottom Line
Swissmar Classic is a multipurpose grill used as a raclette, pancake maker, and grill for grilling meat and vegetables. One can invest in one appliance and get the benefits of the different appliances from this grill.
Conclusion
When one is thinking of making food for smaller crowds, the small electric grill is the best option. Electric grills give many features like easy cooking, cost-effectiveness, smaller sizes, and versatility of using at the place. One can find some of the best small electric grills that are useful and pocket-friendly. These grills help in cooking some delicious food in an instant. One should always compare and contrast the grills and their features before buying. The durability of the grates and the temperature range are two crucial features that one should not avoid. Other than this, look for a good control panel, larger surface area, and added features for a better cooking experience.