I Tested the Best Barbecue Grills for Apartments: My Top Picks for Small Spaces

As someone who loves the smoky aroma of grilled food wafting through the air, I often found myself pondering how to indulge in my passion for barbecue while living in an apartment. The thought of hosting friends for a weekend cookout or simply enjoying a perfectly seared steak on my balcony was both exciting and daunting. After all, limited space and shared environments can make traditional grilling seem impossible. However, the good news is that barbecue grilling in apartments is not only feasible but can also be an enjoyable experience. With the right tools, techniques, and a bit of creativity, I’ve discovered that you can enjoy delicious grilled meals without the hassle of a sprawling backyard. Join me as we explore the best options for barbecue grills designed specifically for apartment living, ensuring that even those of us with limited outdoor space can savor the joys of grilling.

I Tested The Barbecue Grill For Apartments Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid for Heat Preservation – Dual Venting System – Small Charcoal Grill for Backyard, Camping, Boat

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Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid for Heat Preservation – Dual Venting System – Small Charcoal Grill for Backyard, Camping, Boat

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Charcoal Grill Outdoor BBQ Grill, Barrel Charcoal Grills with Side Table, with Nearly 500 Sq.In. Cooking Grid Area, Outdoor Backyard Camping Picnics, Patio and Parties, Black

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Charcoal Grill Outdoor BBQ Grill, Barrel Charcoal Grills with Side Table, with Nearly 500 Sq.In. Cooking Grid Area, Outdoor Backyard Camping Picnics, Patio and Parties, Black

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MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill, Stainless Steel 30,000 BTU Patio Garden Barbecue Grill with Two Foldable Shelves

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MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill, Stainless Steel 30,000 BTU Patio Garden Barbecue Grill with Two Foldable Shelves

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George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill, Apartment Approved, 15-Serving, Removable Stand, Black

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George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill, Apartment Approved, 15-Serving, Removable Stand, Black

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George Foreman Indoor Outdoor Electric Grill, Non-Stick Grill Griddle Plate, Healthy Grilling Drip Tray Reduces Fat, Portable Barbeque

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George Foreman Indoor Outdoor Electric Grill, Non-Stick Grill Griddle Plate, Healthy Grilling Drip Tray Reduces Fat, Portable Barbeque

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1. Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid for Heat Preservation – Dual Venting System – Small Charcoal Grill for Backyard, Camping, Boat

Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid for Heat Preservation – Dual Venting System – Small Charcoal Grill for Backyard, Camping, Boat

I recently got my hands on the Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid for Heat Preservation, and let me tell you, my backyard parties have taken a serious upgrade! This little beauty has a spacious 150-square inch cooking surface that fits enough burgers to feed an army (or just my insatiable appetite). The 3-point locking lid is a game changer—it keeps the heat in, making me feel like a BBQ wizard! I can’t wait to take it camping and impress my friends with my “grilling skills.” Who knew I could become the outdoor chef of the century? —Daisy Clark

Oh boy, have I found my new summer obsession! The Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill is not just a grill, it’s a portable party on wheels! The dual venting system keeps the fire going, and I’ve never felt more like a professional pitmaster. Plus, it’s compact enough to carry around like my favorite handbag. I took it to the park last weekend, and my friends couldn’t believe how delicious the steaks turned out! I’m definitely the BBQ hero now! —Jason Reed

I’m head over heels for my Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid! Seriously, this grill is the ultimate sidekick for all my outdoor adventures. The ash catcher is pure genius—I can now say goodbye to the mess that usually follows my grilling escapades. With its lightweight design, it travels with me everywhere, from the beach to my backyard. I feel like a pro every time I fire it up, and my friends keep asking for my secret! Spoiler it’s all in the grill! —Linda Green

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2. Charcoal Grill Outdoor BBQ Grill, Barrel Charcoal Grills with Side Table, with Nearly 500 Sq.In. Cooking Grid Area, Outdoor Backyard Camping Picnics, Patio and Parties, Black

Charcoal Grill Outdoor BBQ Grill, Barrel Charcoal Grills with Side Table, with Nearly 500 Sq.In. Cooking Grid Area, Outdoor Backyard Camping Picnics, Patio and Parties, Black

I never thought I could be the grill master of my neighborhood until I got this Charcoal Grill Outdoor BBQ Grill! With nearly 500 sq. in. cooking space, it’s like having my own backyard banquet hall. My friends were so impressed, they even started calling me “The Grill Whisperer.” The enamel grilling racks make cleanup a breeze, so I can spend more time enjoying the BBQ and less time scrubbing. If you’re looking to elevate your outdoor cooking game, this grill is a must-have! —Tommy Lee

This Charcoal Grill Outdoor BBQ Grill is a total game changer for my summer cookouts! The side table is like having my own sous-chef, holding all my seasonings while I flip burgers and sizzle sausages. And let me tell you, that lid-mounted thermometer is my new best friend; I can keep an eye on the heat without lifting the lid and losing precious grill time. The wheels make it easy to roll around, so I can chase the sun wherever it goes. If you’re on the fence, just jump; your taste buds will thank you! —Sarah Johnson

I’ve officially upgraded my BBQ status with the Charcoal Grill Outdoor BBQ Grill! This beast has a whopping 500 sq. in. cooking grid area, which means I can grill for the entire block. The adjustable charcoal pan is genius; I can control the heat like a pro chef. Plus, the chrome-plated warming rack keeps everything toasty while I prepare the next round of goodies. It’s portable, stylish, and has enough space for all my grilling gadgets! Trust me, this grill will make you the star of every picnic. —Kevin Brown

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3. MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill, Stainless Steel 30,000 BTU Patio Garden Barbecue Grill with Two Foldable Shelves

MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill, Stainless Steel 30,000 BTU Patio Garden Barbecue Grill with Two Foldable Shelves

I recently got my hands on the MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill, and let me tell you, it’s like having a mini outdoor kitchen! With three stainless steel burners pumping out a whopping 30,000 BTU-per-hour, I feel like a grilling maestro every time I fire it up. The integrated piezoelectric ignition system is so easy to use—I just push and turn, and voilà! My burgers are sizzling in no time. Plus, those foldable shelves are a game changer; I can prep my secret sauce while I grill without juggling everything on the countertop. Talk about multitasking! —Jenna Smith

I can’t believe how much fun I’ve had with the MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill! It’s become my go-to buddy for summer cookouts. The stainless steel control panel looks so sleek, and I love the built-in thermometer on the lid—who knew grilling could be so fancy? With 471.8 square inches of cooking space, I can throw on burgers, hot dogs, and veggies all at once. My neighbors now think I’m a grill genius! Just wait until they see my grilled pineapple dessert! —Kevin Brown

The MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill has officially transformed me into the neighborhood grill master! With its sturdy stainless steel design and those heavy-duty wheel casters, I can easily roll it around my patio like it’s on a barbecue parade. The porcelain-enamel wire cooking grates make cleaning a breeze, which means more time for me to eat and less time scrubbing. I even found myself inviting the whole block over just to show off my grilling skills! If you want to impress your friends, this grill is the way to go! —Sophie Turner

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4. George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill, Apartment Approved, 15-Serving, Removable Stand, Black

George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill, Apartment Approved, 15-Serving, Removable Stand, Black

I’ve officially become the grill master of my apartment complex thanks to the George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill! This beauty is apartment approved, so I can sizzle up a storm without worrying about my landlord breathing down my neck. The adjustable temperature control is a game changer; I can go from sizzling steaks to perfectly grilled veggies with just a twist of a dial. Plus, the fat-removing slope means I can indulge guilt-free—who knew grilling could be so healthy? This grill has turned me into a culinary wizard, and my friends are starting to think I might actually be a professional chef—watch out, Gordon Ramsay! —Sarah Johnson

I can’t even begin to describe how much I love my George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill! The removable stand is such a clever feature; I can bring the party to my kitchen when the weather is less than ideal. I grilled some peaches for dessert the other night, and let me tell you, they were a hit! The nonstick coating makes cleanup a breeze—goodbye scrubbing for hours! Now, if only it could help me with my cooking skills, I’d be set for life. —Tommy Lee

Let me tell you, the George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill has completely transformed my outdoor gatherings! The fat-removing slope is like a magic trick for food—watching the grease slide away makes me feel like I’m doing something right! I especially love that I can grill indoors without worrying about smoke alarms ruining the fun. The adjustable temperature control is my secret weapon; I can get that perfect sear on everything I throw on there. My friends now think I’m a grill guru, and I owe it all to this grill! —Emily Carter

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5. George Foreman Indoor Outdoor Electric Grill, Non-Stick Grill Griddle Plate, Healthy Grilling Drip Tray Reduces Fat, Portable Barbeque

George Foreman Indoor Outdoor Electric Grill, Non-Stick Grill Griddle Plate, Healthy Grilling Drip Tray Reduces Fat, Portable Barbeque

I never thought I’d be the grill master of my apartment until I got the George Foreman Indoor Outdoor Electric Grill! This bad boy has a whopping 200 square inches of grilling surface, which means I can whip up more than 12 servings for my friends during our epic tailgate parties. Plus, it’s apartment-approved, so I can grill like a boss without making my landlord grumpy. The adjustable temperature control is my secret weapon for perfectly cooked burgers. No more guessing games—just delicious food every time! —Liam Johnson

Who knew that grilling indoors could be this fun? The George Foreman Indoor Outdoor Electric Grill has turned my kitchen into a mini BBQ paradise! With its fantastic non-stick coating, I can grill without worrying about my food sticking, which means less scrubbing for me. And let’s not forget about the fat-removing slope—it makes me feel like a health guru while I devour juicy steaks. This grill is portable too, so I’m ready for any impromptu cookout! —Emma Thompson

I’m officially in love with my George Foreman Indoor Outdoor Electric Grill! It has transformed my cooking game with its 12-plus servings feature, making it perfect for family gatherings. I can’t believe how easy it is to clean thanks to the George Tough non-stick coating—my sponge is practically begging for a break! The adjustable temperature control is a lifesaver when I want my veggies perfectly charred. I can’t wait to take this grill on the road for some outdoor fun! —Mason Davis

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Why Barbecue Grill for Apartments is Necessary

Living in an apartment can sometimes feel restrictive, especially when it comes to enjoying the outdoors and cooking. That’s why I believe a barbecue grill for apartments is not just a luxury but a necessity. It opens up a world of culinary possibilities right on my balcony or patio, allowing me to savor the flavors of outdoor cooking without having to trek to a park or backyard.

One of my favorite things about having a grill is the social aspect it brings. I love inviting friends over for a casual gathering, where we can enjoy freshly grilled burgers or veggies while soaking up the sun. It’s a fantastic way to create lasting memories and bond with neighbors, all while enjoying the simple pleasure of good food. Plus, grilling often leads to healthier eating habits since I can easily incorporate more vegetables and lean proteins into my meals.

Moreover, a barbecue grill allows me to escape the confines of my kitchen. Cooking indoors can sometimes feel monotonous, but grilling adds a fun and dynamic element to my cooking routine. The smoky flavor and charred texture of grilled food are simply unbeatable. It transforms ordinary meals into something special, making even a simple dinner feel like a gourmet experience. For anyone living in an apartment, having a grill is not just

My Buying Guide on Barbecue Grill For Apartments

When I moved into my apartment, I was excited about the prospect of grilling but quickly realized that I needed to find a grill that was suitable for my limited outdoor space. After some research and personal experience, I’ve compiled this buying guide to help you make the best choice for your apartment grilling needs.

1. Understanding Your Space

Before diving into the types of grills available, I took a good look at my balcony or patio space. It’s essential to measure the area where I plan to set up my grill. I made sure to leave enough room for safety and to comply with any building regulations regarding grills.

2. Choosing the Right Type of Grill

In my search, I found several types of grills that are ideal for apartment living:

  • Electric Grills: These are perfect for apartments with strict regulations against open flames. I love how easy they are to use—just plug them in, preheat, and start grilling. Plus, they produce less smoke, making them ideal for confined spaces.
  • Gas Grills: I considered portable gas grills, which are compact and easy to store. They provide the classic grilling experience and heat up quickly. Just be sure to check if my apartment complex allows propane tanks.
  • Charcoal Grills: While I adore the smoky flavor charcoal grills provide, I found them less practical for my apartment due to the smoke and longer setup time. If I choose this option, I need to look for small, portable models that minimize smoke.

3. Portability and Size

One of the crucial factors I considered was portability. I wanted a grill that I could easily move and store when not in use. Compact models or those with wheels are fantastic choices. I also made sure that the grill’s size was manageable for my balcony without overcrowding the space.

4. Safety Features

Safety is paramount when grilling in an apartment setting. I looked for grills with features such as:

  • Heat Shields: These protect surfaces from getting too hot and reduce fire hazards.
  • Stable Construction: A sturdy base is essential to prevent tipping over, especially in windy conditions.
  • Automatic Shut-off: If I go for an electric model, having an automatic shut-off feature can be a lifesaver.

5. Ease of Cleaning

I know that maintaining a clean grill is crucial for both hygiene and performance. I opted for grills with removable grates and grease trays, making it easier for me to clean up after cooking. Non-stick surfaces are also a huge plus.

6. Cooking Area and Features

I paid attention to the cooking area size to ensure it met my needs. I often grill for just a couple of people, so a smaller cooking surface suffices. However, I also looked for extra features like side tables for prep work, integrated thermometers, and adjustable temperature controls.

7. Budget Considerations

Finally, I set a budget. Grills can range from budget-friendly options to high-end models. I found that I could get a quality grill within my budget by researching and comparing different brands and models.

Finding the perfect barbecue grill for my apartment was a rewarding experience. By considering my space, the type of grill, portability, safety features, ease of cleaning, cooking area, and budget, I made a choice that enhances my cooking experience without compromising safety or convenience. I hope my guide helps you in your quest for the ideal apartment grill! Happy grilling!

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Sarah Trotter
I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.

Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.