Barbecue Grill for Apartments: Top Compact Grills for Small Spaces

Last Updated on November 24, 2025

Finding the right barbecue grill for apartments can be tricky. Space, safety, and convenience all matter a lot.

Apartment living often means limited outdoor space and strict rules on grilling. Electric and portable grills offer great options. The Chefman Electric Smokeless Indoor Grill uses non-stick surfaces and adjustable heat for easy cooking without smoke. Cuisinart’s Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill works well in small spaces with its portable design and adjustable temperature.

For charcoal fans, the Gas One 14-inch Portable Grill keeps heat steady with a locking lid and vents. The Cuisinart Petite Gourmet Portable Gas Grill fits balconies and small patios, with a compact size and adjustable base. These grills suit apartment life by balancing size, safety, and flavor. Choose one that fits your space and cooking style for tasty meals at home.

Chefman Electric Smokeless Indoor Grill

Chefman Electric Smokeless Indoor Grill w/ Non-Stick Cooking Surface & Adjustable Temperature Knob from Warm to Sear for Customized BBQing, Dishwasher Safe Removable Water Tray, Black

The Chefman Electric Smokeless Indoor Grill is ideal for individuals who love grilling but are limited by space or weather conditions. Perfect for apartment dwellers, busy professionals, or anyone seeking a convenient, smoke-free grilling experience indoors, this grill offers a practical solution for year-round BBQ enjoyment.

Pros:

  • Features a non-stick cooking surface for easy food release and quick cleanup
  • Adjustable temperature knob allows customized cooking from warm to sear
  • Dishwasher safe removable water tray helps reduce smoke and collects grease efficiently
  • Compact and lightweight design (5.3 pounds) for easy storage and portability
  • Sleek black finish complements modern kitchen aesthetics

Cons:

  • Limited grilling surface size may not be suitable for large gatherings
  • Requires access to an electrical outlet, limiting outdoor use

The Chefman Electric Smokeless Indoor Grill boasts a thoughtfully designed non-stick cooking surface that ensures food cooks evenly and releases effortlessly, minimizing mess and hassle. Its adjustable temperature knob provides precise control over heat levels, allowing users to tailor the cooking process from gentle warming to high-heat searing, enhancing flavor and texture for a perfect BBQ experience every time.

Additionally, the grill includes a dishwasher safe removable water tray that captures excess grease and reduces smoke production, making it a healthier and cleaner option for indoor grilling. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it highly portable and easy to store, making it a versatile appliance for those who want delicious grilled meals without the need for an outdoor grill setup.

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Cuisinart Indoor/outdoor Electric Grill

Cuisinart Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill, 2-in-1 Portable BBQ with Nonstick Cooking Surface, Electric Grill Outdoor with Adjustable Heat, Stand/Tabletop Options for Cookouts, Barbecues, Small Spaces

The Cuisinart Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill is perfect for individuals who love grilling but have limited space or prefer the convenience of an electric grill. Ideal for apartment dwellers, small families, or anyone who enjoys cookouts without the hassle of traditional charcoal or gas grills, this versatile 2-in-1 portable BBQ offers both indoor and outdoor functionality. Its compact design and adjustable heat settings make it suitable for casual grillers and culinary enthusiasts alike.

Pros:

  • Versatile 2-in-1 design for both indoor and outdoor use
  • Nonstick cooking surface ensures easy cleanup and better food release
  • Adjustable heat settings allow precise temperature control
  • Option to use as a stand grill or tabletop grill for convenience
  • Compact and portable, ideal for small spaces and transport
  • Durable build from a trusted brand, Cuisinart

Cons:

  • Weighs 20 pounds, which might be slightly heavy for some users
  • Standard edition lacks some advanced features found in premium models

The Cuisinart Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill features a spacious nonstick cooking surface that ensures food cooks evenly without sticking, making grilling easier and healthier by requiring less oil. Its adjustable heat control allows users to tailor the temperature to different types of food, from delicate vegetables to thick cuts of meat, enhancing the grilling experience. The grill’s thoughtful design includes both stand and tabletop options, providing flexibility based on available space and user preference.

Constructed with convenience in mind, this electric grill eliminates the need for charcoal or propane, making it ideal for indoor use where open flames are not permitted. The portability and compact dimensions (height: 39 inches, width: 21.5 inches, length: 18 inches) make it easy to transport to picnics, tailgates, or balconies. Overall, the Cuisinart 2-in-1 Portable BBQ combines functionality, ease of use, and portability, making it a smart choice for anyone looking to enjoy grilled meals anytime and anywhere.

To buy this product, click here.

Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill

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

The Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy grilling on the go. Whether you are a camper, boater, or someone with a small backyard, this compact and lightweight charcoal grill offers convenience without compromising on performance. Its portability and efficient heat preservation make it perfect for those who want to enjoy freshly grilled food anywhere.

Pros:

  • Portable and lightweight design makes it easy to carry and transport.
  • 3-point locking lid ensures excellent heat preservation while cooking.
  • Dual venting system provides better temperature control for even cooking.
  • Compact size fits well in small spaces such as boats, camping sites, or small backyards.
  • Bright red color adds style and visibility.
  • Easy to clean and maintain due to simple construction.

Cons:

  • Limited cooking surface may not be suitable for large groups.
  • Charcoal grilling requires monitoring and manual temperature adjustment.
  • No built-in thermometer for precise temperature readings.

The Gas One 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill boasts a sturdy build with dimensions of 15.0 inches in height and 14.5 inches in both width and length, making it compact yet efficient. The 3-point locking lid is a standout feature that helps retain heat effectively, allowing for consistent grilling temperatures. This means your food cooks evenly and retains its juiciness and flavor. The dual venting system enhances airflow control, giving users the ability to fine-tune the cooking environment for different types of charcoal and grilling styles.

Weighing only 4.0 pounds, this grill is easy to carry and set up wherever your outdoor adventures take you. Its bright red color not only looks appealing but also makes it easy to spot among your camping or boating gear. The small charcoal grill design is perfect for those who want a simple, reliable grill that delivers great results without taking up too much space. Overall, this grill offers a balance of portability, durability, and performance for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

To buy this product, click here.

Cuisinart Petite Gourmet Portable Gas Grill

Cuisinart Petite Gourmet Portable Gas Grill with VersaStand, Compact Portable Grill Propane, 150 Sq. In. Cooking Surface, 5,500 BTU Burner Small Gas Grills for Camping, BBQ, Adjustable Base, Handles

The Cuisinart Petite Gourmet Portable Gas Grill with VersaStand is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want a compact and efficient grilling solution. Ideal for campers, tailgaters, and small-space BBQ lovers, this grill offers portability without sacrificing performance. If you’re someone who values convenience and enjoys cooking outdoors on the go, this grill is designed for you.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight design makes it highly portable and easy to carry.
  • 5,500 BTU burner provides efficient and consistent heat for grilling.
  • 150 sq. in. cooking surface is ideal for small gatherings or solo meals.
  • Includes an adjustable VersaStand base with handles for versatile placement and easy transport.
  • Sturdy construction from a trusted brand, Cuisinart, ensures durability and reliability.

Cons:

  • Limited cooking surface may not be suitable for larger groups or extensive meals.
  • Lower BTU rating compared to larger grills might affect cooking speed for some foods.
  • No built-in temperature gauge for precise heat control.

The Cuisinart Petite Gourmet Portable Gas Grill boasts a compact footprint with dimensions of approximately 32.5 inches in height, 28 inches in width, and 19.5 inches in length, weighing just 18.8 pounds. This makes it incredibly easy to transport and set up in various outdoor environments. The grill’s 5,500 BTU burner delivers ample heat for quick and even cooking on its 150 square inch cooking surface, making it perfect for grilling burgers, vegetables, and other small meals.

Thanks to its VersaStand adjustable base and convenient handles, this grill offers great flexibility in placement—whether on a picnic table, camping site, or patio. The portability combined with Cuisinart’s quality craftsmanship ensures that users enjoy a reliable grilling experience wherever they go. Although compact, it provides all the essential features needed for a satisfying outdoor cooking session, making it a smart choice for anyone who needs a grill that balances size, power, and convenience.

To buy this product, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Best Grill For Apartment Balconies?

Electric grills like Chefman and Cuisinart are ideal for apartments. They are smokeless, compact, and safe for balconies, meeting most apartment rules.

Can I Use A Charcoal Grill In My Apartment?

Charcoal grills like Gas One 14-inch are portable but may produce smoke. Check apartment policies before use to avoid complaints or fines.

How Do Electric Grills Prevent Smoke Indoors?

Electric grills have non-stick surfaces and water trays that reduce smoke. They use controlled heat, making them perfect for indoor barbecue grilling.

Are Portable Gas Grills Safe For Apartments?

Yes, portable gas grills like Cuisinart Petite Gourmet are safe if used outdoors. They are compact, easy to control, and comply with most safety rules.

What Features Matter In Apartment Grills?

Look for compact size, smokeless operation, adjustable heat, and easy cleaning. These features ensure convenience and compliance in small apartment spaces.

Conclusion

Choosing the right barbecue grill for apartment living makes cooking outdoors simple and fun. Small grills like the Chefman Electric Smokeless Grill or the Cuisinart Portable Gas Grill fit well in limited spaces. They offer easy temperature control and simple cleaning, perfect for busy lifestyles.

Charcoal options like the Gas One 14-inch grill bring authentic smoky flavor without taking up much room. Portability is key, allowing you to enjoy grilling on balconies or nearby parks. Safety features and compact designs ensure apartment rules are met.

With these grills, you can enjoy tasty meals without the hassle of large equipment. Whether electric or gas, each grill offers unique benefits for small spaces. So, pick one that matches your cooking style and space. Enjoy delicious barbecues right where you live, no backyard needed.

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