Having the best portable pellet grill is essential for an outdoor cooking enthusiast. These compact grills offer all the benefits of traditional pellet grills, but with the added convenience of being able to take them wherever you want to cook. Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or just need an extra grill for a backyard party, a portable pellet grill is a perfect choice.
We research and test all products to give you informed product reviews. Read our Editorial Guidelines. Buying through our links may earn us a small commission with no added cost to you.
Table of Contents
The Best Portable Pellet Grills
Are you in the market for the best portable pellet grill? Look no further!
We know that finding the perfect grill can be a daunting task, with so many options to choose from. That’s why we’ve done the hard work for you, scouring the internet and testing out a variety of models to bring you the top picks for the best portable pellet grills.
Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out, these grills offer something for everyone, with a range of features and price points to suit any need. It is also amazing to use smoker tubes with these types of grills. From compact tabletop models to larger, collapsible grills, we’ve got you covered.
So get ready to elevate your outdoor cooking experience and take your grilling skills to the next level with the best one on the market!
Become a BBQ Hero Insider
Be the first to find out about product deals, discounts, new product reviews and BBQ recipes!
Our Picks: The Best Portable Pellet Grills
- Editor’s Pick: Z Grills Cruiser 200A Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker
- Best Overall: Traeger Grills Ranger
- Runner Up: Traeger Tailgater Pellet Grill and Smoker
- Best Luxury: Camp Chef Pursuit 20″ Portable Pellet Grill
- Best Battery Powered: Pit Boss Portable Battery Powered Grill
- Most Lightweight: Cuisinart CPG- 256 Portable Pellet Grill
- Best Beginner Friendly: ASMOKE AS350 Portable Pellet Grill
Editor's Pick
Z Grills Cruiser 200A Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker
Introducing the Z GRILLS Cruiser 200A Portable Pellet Grill, our personal pick for the portable pellet grill category. This compact and versatile grill is perfect for small families, camping enthusiasts, tailgaters, or solo grillers.
You can cook in a variety of ways with this little powerhouse and its 8-in-1 cooking technology, including grilling, smoking, baking, roasting, searing, braising, barbecuing, and char-grilling. With precision digital temperature control, wood-fired BBQ has never been easier to make while adventuring.
We found the Z GRILLS Cruiser 200A Portable Pellet Grill to be an outstanding performer with user-friendly features. The 8lb pellet hopper with an automatic auger system fed pellets and adjusted the feed rate according to temperature settings, making it easy to maintain consistent heat. The temperature range of 180-450F allowed us to experiment with various cooking methods, while the portable design, including lid locks and carrying handles, made transportation a breeze.
Compared to other portable pellet grills, the Cruiser 200A stands out due to its user-friendly features, precise temperature control, and versatility. While more affordable options are available, the performance and convenience provided by the Cruiser 200A make it a worthwhile investment.
What We Liked:
- Compact design and versatile cooking options
- Precision digital temperature control
- Portable and user-friendly
- 3 year warranty and 30 day money back guarantee
What We Didn’t Like:
- Limited cooking space: With 202 square inches of cooking space, it may not be suitable for larger gatherings.
All in all, the Z GRILLS Cruiser 200A Portable Pellet Grill is a high-quality and versatile cooking appliance that offers an excellent balance of performance and convenience. Its precision digital temperature control, user-friendly features, and portable design make it a top choice in the portable pellet grill market.
Backed by a 3-year warranty and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, the Cruiser 200A is a reliable investment for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. We highly recommend this grill for anyone seeking a top-quality portable pellet grill with a focus on convenience and consistent, delicious results.
Best Portable Pellet Grill
Traeger Ranger Pellet Grill
The Traeger Grills Ranger Pellet Grill and Smoker is our top pick for “Best Overall” in the portable pellet grill category. This exceptional grill combines powerful performance with convenience and portability. This makes it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy delicious grilled meals on the go.
We were impressed by the performance of the Traeger Grills Ranger Pellet Grill and Smoker. The Digital Arc controller allowed us to easily manage the temperature, reaching a max temperature of 450° F. The porcelain-coated grill grates ensured even heating and easy cleaning. With 8 lbs of pellet hopper capacity, the grill maintained consistent heat for the duration of our cooking. While the cooking space was on the smaller side, we were able to cook a variety of dishes, such as ribs, burgers, and hot dogs.
When compared to other portable pellet grills, the Traeger Ranger stands out due to its precise temperature control, Keep Warm Mode, and included accessories. These features make it a top choice for those looking for a high-quality, portable grilling solution, even with its slightly heavier weight.
What We Liked:
- The Digital Arc controller offers exact temperature management without having to babysit the grill
- Includes a griddle surface rack and meat probe
- Keep Warm Mode
What We Didn’t Like:
- 184 sq. in. cooking space may not be enough for larger gatherings or multiple dishes.
- Heavier than some other portable grills, making it less convenient for carrying long distances.
Overall, the Traeger Grills Ranger Pellet Grill and Smoker is a high-quality and versatile cooking appliance that offers excellent performance and convenience. Its precise temperature control, Keep Warm Mode, and included accessories make it a top choice in the portable pellet grill market.
Although its weight and limited cooking space may be drawbacks for some, its overall value and performance make it a solid investment for those who prioritize quality and convenience in a portable pellet grill. We highly recommend the Traeger Grills Ranger Pellet Grill and Smoker for anyone seeking a top-notch portable pellet grill with precise temperature control and exceptional cooking results.
Second Best Portable Pellet Grill
Traeger Tailgater Pellet Grill and Smoker
The Traeger Tailgater Pellet Grill is our runner-up to the best portable pellet grill. This versatile grill is perfect for those who need a larger cooking surface without sacrificing portability.
The Traeger Tailgater Pellet Grill performed well during our testing. The Digital Arc controller allowed for precise temperature control, while the porcelain-coated grill grates provided even heating and easy clean-up. We particularly appreciated the expanded 300 square inches of cooking space, which allowed us to make more food at once. Like the Ranger model, the Tailgater also included a griddle and meat probe, further enhancing its cooking versatility.
When comparing the Traeger Tailgater to other portable pellet grills, its key advantage is the larger cooking area. This feature, coupled with the same temperature control and accessories as the Ranger, makes it a strong contender for those needing a more spacious grill. Plus, it weighs in at the same weight as the Traeger Ranger despite the added cooking space!
The Traeger Tailgater Pellet Grill is ideal for people who need a larger cooking surface while maintaining portability. It’s an excellent option for tailgating, camping trips, or backyard cookouts where extra cooking space is desired.
What We Liked:
- Large cooking space
- Precise temperature control
- Equipped with legs and wheels
What We Didn’t Like:
- Besides the larger cooking area, the Tailgater offers the same features as the Ranger, making it less appealing to those looking for additional functionality.
In summary, the Traeger Tailgater Pellet Grill offers an attractive combination of a larger cooking area and precise temperature control, making it a strong choice for those seeking a portable pellet grill with extra space. While it shares the same weight and features as the Ranger, its increased cooking surface sets it apart.
We recommend the Traeger Tailgater Pellet Grill for anyone in search of a portable pellet grill that offers more room to cook without sacrificing performance or convenience.
Best Luxury Portable Pellet Grill
Camp Chef Pursuit 20″ Portable Pellet Grill
Introducing the Camp Chef Pursuit 20″ Portable Pellet Grill, our top choice for a luxury portable pellet grill. This high-quality grill comes with an impressive range of features that make it stand out from the competition.
We found the Camp Chef Pursuit 20″ Portable Pellet Grill to be an outstanding luxury portable pellet grill. The PID controller and adjustable smoke settings provide precise temperature control, ensuring consistent results every time. The included two meat probes and easy-to-use menu dial, along with the high-visibility, low-glare digital display, make the grill extremely user-friendly. The Ash Cleanout System is an added bonus for easy maintenance.
Compared to other portable pellet grills, the Camp Chef Pursuit 20″ offers a superior level of temperature control and advanced features, such as the Slide and Grill Technology for direct flame grilling. This Portable Pellet Grill is ideal for those who value premium features and precise temperature control in a portable grill, perfect for outdoor events like tailgates and camping trips.
What We Liked:
- Precise temperature control with an adjustable smoke setting from 1-10 and a temperature range of 160ºF to 500ºF.
- Versatile cooking options
- Compact design with folding legs and rolling transport
What We Didn’t Like:
- Requires a 110-volt outlet to operate, which may not always be available at outdoor events.
All in all, the Camp Chef Pursuit 20″ Portable Pellet Grill offers top-of-the-line performance and features in a portable package, making it our top pick for a luxury portable pellet grill. With its precise temperature control, versatile cooking options, and user-friendly design, it delivers an exceptional grilling experience.
Best Battery-Powered Portable Pellet Grill
Pit Boss Portable Battery Powered Grill
Looking for a high-quality grill that delivers bold, wood-fired flavor wherever you are? The Portable Battery Powered Wood Pellet Grill from Pit Boss could be the perfect fit.
It’s a battery-powered grill that can run for up to 15 hours on a single charge, providing you with a seamless and satisfying grilling experience. It also boasts a dial-in digital control board with an LED read-out for temperature precision.
Compared to other portable grills, the Portable Battery Powered Wood Pellet Grill stands out due to its battery power. Most other grills require a power outlet, limiting their usability in more remote locations. However, this grill offers the flexibility to grill almost anywhere, without compromising the cooking quality or space.
This grill is perfect for those who love outdoor cooking and frequently travel to places without a readily available power source. It’s also a good fit for small to medium-sized gatherings due to its ample cooking space.
What We Liked
- The battery technology allows for an impressive 15 hours of run time
- Compact design and convenient handles make it easy to transport, making it perfect for tailgating, camping, or backyard barbecues
- Temperature range from 180°F to 500°F and the adjustable Flame Broiler gives direct flame access up to 1000°F
- Made of heavy-duty steel construction and a high-temp powder coat finish for durability
What We Didn’t Like
- Although the grill comes with a best-in-class 5-year warranty, the battery warranty only lasts for 1 year after purchase.
- While it is a portable grill, it weighs almost 47 pounds, which might be a bit heavy to carry around for some people.
Overall, the Pit Boss Portable Battery Powered Wood Pellet Grill is a high-quality, versatile, and convenient grill that lets you take the joy of grilling anywhere. It is undoubtedly a great investment for those who want a mobile, reliable, and high-performing grilling solution.
Most Lightweight Pellet Grill
Cuisinart Portable Pellet Grill
The Cuisinart Portable Pellet Grill is the lightest portable pellet grill on our list, weighing 15 lbs less than other grills we’ve reviewed. This lightweight grill comes with an array of features, making it a convenient and versatile choice for outdoor grilling enthusiasts.
The Cuisinart Portable Pellet Grill impressed us with its lightweight design, making it easy to transport to outdoor events or camping trips. The integrated sear zone provided additional cooking options, and the digital control system ensured precise temperature control. The electronic auto-start ignition, digital auto temperature control, and real-time LED temperature display contributed to the grill’s user-friendly design.
Compared to other portable pellet grills, the Cuisinart Portable Pellet Grill stands out for its lightweight design, making it more convenient for those who value portability. While the temperature range is not as wide as some competitors, it still provides plenty of options for cooking various dishes.
The Cuisinart Portable Pellet Grill is ideal for those who prioritize portability and ease of transport without sacrificing performance. It is perfect for campers, tailgaters, and people who enjoy outdoor events.
What We Liked:
- Good-sized cooking space
- Lightweight design
- Locking lid with a handle
What We Didn’t Like:
- Limited hopper capacity
Overall, the Cuisinart Portable Pellet Grill offers excellent performance and portability in a lightweight package. The integrated sear zone, digital controls, and user-friendly features make it a solid choice for those who value convenience and portability in a pellet grill. While the temperature range and hopper capacity may be limited compared to larger models, the grill’s overall value and performance make it a fantastic option for outdoor grilling enthusiasts.
Best Beginner-Friendly Portable Pellet Grill
ASMOKE AS350 Portable Pellet Grill
The ASMOKE Portable Pellet Grill is our top pick for a beginner-friendly pellet grill. This easy-to-use grill offers a range of features that make it perfect for those just starting out with pellet grilling.
We found the ASMOKE Portable Pellet Grill to be an excellent option for beginners due to its user-friendly design and features. The grill heats up quickly and offers a temperature range of 180 to 500F. The auto-pellet reloading and heating fan make it easy to maintain consistent heat, despite some complaints about temperature stability. The stainless steel meat probe and various color options add to the grill’s appeal.
When compared to other portable pellet grills, the ASMOKE stands out for its beginner-friendly features and energy-saving technology. However, it does have a smaller cooking area than some competitors, such as the Traeger Tailgater. The ASMOKE Portable Pellet Grill is perfect for those new to pellet grilling or anyone who values ease of use and energy efficiency in a compact design.
What We Liked:
- Offers 8-in-1 cooking with both direct and indirect grilling.
- Quickly reaches ideal temperatures and is fuel-efficient
- Easy to carry, assemble, and clean, with a one-button ignition and temperature setting.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Some customers have complained about the grill not holding a steady temperature during use.
In summary, the ASMOKE Portable Pellet Grill is an excellent choice for beginners and those who prioritize user-friendly features in a portable grill. With its energy-saving technology, versatile cooking options, and simple design, it provides an enjoyable grilling experience.
Although it may have some temperature control issues and limited cooking space, the ASMOKE Portable Pellet Grill remains a top choice for those new to pellet grilling or who desire an easy-to-use portable option.
Our Results for The Best Portable Pellet Grills
- Editor’s Pick: Z Grills Cruiser 200A Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker
“high-quality and versatile cooking appliance that offers an excellent balance of performance and convenience” - Best Overall: Traeger Grills Ranger
“stands out due to its precise temperature control, Keep Warm Mode, and included accessories” - Runner Up: Traeger Tailgater Pellet Grill and Smoker
“perfect for those who need a larger cooking surface without sacrificing portability” - Best Luxury: Camp Chef Pursuit 20″ Portable Pellet Grill
“ideal for those who value premium features and precise temperature control in a portable grill” - Best Battery Powered: Pit Boss Portable Battery Powered Grill
“offers the flexibility to grill almost anywhere, without compromising the cooking quality or space” - Most Lightweight: Cuisinart CPG- 256 Portable Pellet Grill
“lightweight design makes it more convenient for those who value portability” - Best Beginner Friendly: ASMOKE AS350 Portable Pellet Grill
“excellent option for beginners due to its user-friendly design and features”
Portable Pellet Grill Buying Guide
Are you ready to upgrade your grilling game with a portable one, but not sure where to start? No worries! In this buying guide, we’ll help you navigate the world of portable pellet grills and identify the features that will meet your needs.
From advanced wood fire technology and digital controllers to LED temperature displays and auto start features, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a compact grill for your backyard or a lightweight model that you can take on the go, we’ve got you covered.
Dimensions
When it comes to choosing the right size portable grill for your needs, it’s important to consider both the grill’s portability and its overall size. After all, the whole point of owning a portable pellet grill is being able to take it with you wherever you go, which means it needs to be easy to pack and carry, and also compact enough to fit in your vehicle.
Unfortunately, not all “portable” pellet grills are actually as compact as they claim to be, so it’s important to do your research and read product descriptions carefully to get a sense of the grill actual size.
Make sure to pay attention to the dimensions listed in the product description, as this will give you a good idea of the grill’s size and help you choose the right option for your needs.
Additional Features
When it comes to choosing portable wood pellet grills, it’s always a good idea to consider any additional features that might enhance your cooking experience.
For example, many modern portable pellet grills offer WiFi connectivity, which allows you to connect to the grill with your smartphone and monitor your food from the comfort of your home. This can be a convenient feature for busy cooks who want to keep an eye on their food while multitasking.
Similarly, some grills offer LED displays or lighting options, which can be helpful for seeing the food temperature while cooking in low light conditions. While these features may not be essential, they can certainly add some extra convenience and enjoyment to your grilling experience.
Build Quality
When shopping for a portable pellet grill, it’s important to consider the grill’s construction quality and durability. After all, you’ll be carrying your grill in the back of your car or truck, so it needs to be sturdy enough to withstand the rigors of travel.
To ensure you’re getting a grill that’s built to last, make sure to check the materials used in its construction. Are they high-quality, reliable materials like steel or hard plastics, or are they low-quality and prone to breaking?
You can learn more about the materials used in the grill’s construction by reading the product description or looking at product pictures.
Additionally, customer reviews can also provide valuable insights into the grill’s build quality and durability. Make sure to do your research to find a portable pellet grill that’s built to last and can withstand the rigors of travel.
Cooking Chamber Capacity
When shopping for a portable grill, it’s important to consider the capacity of the grill’s cooking chamber. If you have a large family or like to cook for a crowd, you’ll want to make sure that the grill has enough space to accommodate all of your food.
A small cooking chamber may not be able to hold enough food to feed everyone, which means you’ll have to cook in batches, which can be time-consuming and may result in unevenly cooked food.
On the other hand, a larger cooking chamber can help you cook all of your food at once, which can be more efficient and ensure that everything is cooked to perfection.
So if you’re looking for a portable pellet grill that can handle larger quantities of food, make sure to consider the grill’s cooking chamber capacity.
Pellet Hopper Capacity
When it comes to choosing a portable one, the capacity of the grill’s pellet hopper is an important factor to consider. The pellet hopper is where you store the wood pellets that fuel the grill, and if it’s too small, you’ll have to refill it frequently, which can be a hassle.
On the other hand, a grill with a larger pellet hopper capacity can save you time and effort by allowing you to store more pellets at once. This means you won’t have to stop grilling to refill the hopper as often, which can be a big convenience if you’re cooking for a large group or if you simply don’t want to be interrupted while you’re grilling.
So if you want a portable one that’s convenient and easy to use, make sure to consider the grill pellet hopper capacity.
Warranty
When shopping for a portable pellet grill, it’s important to consider the warranty that the manufacturer offers. A good warranty can give you peace of mind and help protect your investment in case something goes wrong with your grill.
Ideally, you should look for a brand that offers at least a 2-year warranty, as this will help ensure that any minor defects with the product will be addressed by the manufacturer. You can usually find information about the warranty in the product description or by contacting the manufacturer directly.
Be sure to check what the warranty covers, as well, so you know exactly what’s protected in case something goes wrong. Overall, a solid warranty is an important factor to consider when choosing a portable pellet grill, so make sure to look for one that offers good protection.
Tabletop Pellet Grill Vs. Collapsible Pellet Grill
When it comes to choosing a portable pellet grill, one of the key decisions you’ll need to make is whether to go with a tabletop model or a collapsible model. Both types of grills have their own unique features and benefits, so it’s important to consider which one is the best fit for your needs.
Tabletop Pellet Grills
Tabletop pellet grills are exactly what they sound like – small, portable grill that are designed to sit on a tabletop or other flat surfaces. They’re typically lightweight and easy to carry, making them a great option for travelers or anyone who needs a compact grill for their backyard.
One of the main benefits is they’re usually very easy to set up and use, with minimal assembly required. They’re also often more affordable than larger, more feature-rich grills, so they can be a great choice for those on a budget.
Collapsible Pellet Grills
On the other hand, this are designed to be easily broken down and stored when not in use. They usually have legs that fold up or can be removed, allowing you to easily pack them away when not in use.
These types of grills are typically a bit larger than tabletop models, so they offer more cooking space and often come with additional features like multiple cooking racks or a built-in thermometer. They’re a great option for those who need a bit more versatility and cooking space, but still want the convenience of a portable grill.
Consider Your Needs
Ultimately, choosing the right portable pellet grill for your needs involves considering a range of factors, from the grill’s size and portability to its construction quality and additional features.
Whether you opt for a tabletop model or a collapsible model will depend on your specific needs and preferences, and it’s important to do your research to find the grill that’s the best fit for you.
By considering these key factors, you can find the perfect portable one to elevate your outdoor cooking experience and help you enjoy delicious, wood-fired meals wherever you are.
Final Thoughts On The Best Portable Pellet Grills
If you’re an outdoor cooking enthusiast, owning your own portable pellet grill can be a game-changer. Whether you’re looking for a compact grill for your backyard or a lightweight model that you can take on the go, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs.
This offer advanced wood fire technology and digital controllers to help you achieve the perfect temperature and flavor, and many also feature LED temperature displays and auto start features for added convenience.
With a portable pellet grill, you can expand your grilling capabilities and enjoy delicious, wood-fired meals wherever you are. Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or simply want to enjoy a backyard BBQ, this can really help you achieve delicious results.
So if you’re ready to take your outdoor cooking to the next level, consider investing for having one to get the best experience.
Portable Pellet Grill FAQs
Are Pellet Grills Worth It?
Pellet grills, like charcoal grills, are worth a purchase because they allow you to maintain a low, steady temperature range for hours without needing adjustments. They are suitable for cookers who prefer to “set and forget” the food.
Not only do they enable low and slow cooking, but they also evenly impart the smoky flavor to your brisket or chicken, which is a plus.
Is Pellet Grill Usage Restricted To Smoking?
Smoking is hands down the best feature of pellet grills. That, however, doesn’t indicate their usage is limited to smoking. You can also use the equipment to make seafood, roast mutton or chicken, and even bake a pizza.
This means you have endless cooking options available with a single unit.
Why Do I Need A Pellet Grill?
Pellet grills are perfect for people who enjoy the taste of smoke in their food and prefer cooking slowly. You can cook various foods, from chicken to beef and seafood.
Besides, the temperature control setting enables you to cook slowly and thoroughly, unlike a charcoal grill that expedites the cooking process.
What Are The Best Wood Pellets For Smoking?
Apple and hickory are some of the best wood pellets. Both are quality woods and allow you to cook anything seamlessly. Apple offers a mild and sweet smoke that compliments the flavor of light foods like vegetables and fish. Contrarily, those looking for a strong, overpowering flavor can opt for hickory. The moderate smoke of hickory is perfect for preparing scrumptious chicken, mutton, and beef.
