The 5 Best Outdoor Electric Grills of 2023
Introduction
Looking to cook up delicious grilled foods in the great outdoors without the mess and hassle of charcoal or propane? Electric grills allow you to harness the magic of outdoor grilling with the convenience of electricity. We reviewed the top 5 highest rated outdoor electric grills on the market, comparing critical factors like grilling surface, power, durability, ease of use, portability and more. Read on for the full breakdown.
Overview
Outdoor electric grills provide an convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional gas and charcoal grilling models. By utilizing electricity instead of open flames, electric grills allow grill masters to cook their favorite foods on the patio, deck, or campsite without worrying about ventillation, dangerous fumes, or disposing of ash and debris. Electric heating elements reach searing temperatures in minutes, infusing food with that quintessential barbecue flavor we all crave. We chose the best electric grills based on grilling surface size, temperature range, ease of assembly, durability, and extra features. Whether cooking for the whole family or just yourself, one of these top-rated electric grills is sure to meet your outdoor cooking needs.
The Best Outdoor Electric Grills of 2023
- George Foreman 15-Serving Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill
- Cuisinart Grillster 26+ Deluxe Electric Grill
- Kenyon Floridian All Seasons Portable Electric Grill
- Excelvan Portable Electric BBQ Grill
- Techwood Smokeless Tabletop BBQ Grill
- George Foreman 15-Serving Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill
The George Foreman 15-Serving Indoor/Outdoor Grill
Specifications
- Grilling Surface – 240 square inches
- Temperature Range – Up to 450°F
- Power Source – Electric
- Portability – Wheeled base with handle
Pros
- Spacious 15-serving grilling surface
- Exceptional temperature range up to 450°F
- Durable nonstick coating prevents food from sticking
- Wheeled stand with handle for portability
- Adjustable temperature control for versatility
- Grease tray captures excess fat and oil
Cons
- Heavy; over 50 lbs
- Temperature drops significantly when lid is opened frequently
Best For: Families, entertaining, apartment dwellers
This George Foreman model provides exceptional value at a reasonable price point. The 240 square inch grilling surface accommodates around 15 servings with ease, making it a perfect choice for families or entertaining a crowd. Despite its large capacity, the unit remains relatively compact and portable thanks to its wheeled base and pull handle. Five height adjustable positions and a generous temperature range up to 450°F grant the versatility to go from crisping veggies to searing meats. With thoughtful extras like a removable stand and grease tray, the Foreman 15-Serving grill proves itself as an exceptionally versatile pick for your outdoor cooking needs.
2.Cuisinart Grillster 26+ Deluxe Electric Grill
Offering one of the largest grilling surfaces in its class, the Cuisinart Grillster 26+ claims our number two slot for families and entertainers needing maximum grilling capacity.
Specifications
- Grilling Surface – 319 square inches
- Temperature Range – Up to 450°F
- Power Source – Electric
- Portability – Integrated carrying handle
Pros:
- Extra large 26+ serving capacity
- Steel and porcelain enameled grilling grate
- Powerful 1800W heating element
- Lid-mounted temperature gauge
- 3 year limited warranty
Cons:
- High price point
- Bulkier and heavier than other models
Best For: Large gatherings, families, entertaining
With well over 300 square inches of grilling surface, Cuisinart’s aptly named Grillster 26+ offers the largest capacity grill in our review. Its integrated briefcase-style handle enhances mobility, granting grillers the freedom to cook meats and veggies for a crowd whether at home or on the go. Durable porcelain enameled grates retain heat exceptionally well while resisting corrosion and simplifying clean-up. Users praise the Grillster’s powerful 1800 watt heating element for achieving searing temperatures under 450°F with ease. Cuisinart stands behind the 26+ griller with a 3 year limited warranty. For grill masters seeking maximum grilling capacity, the Grillster 26+ is perfectly equipped for the job.
3.Kenyon Floridian All Seasons Portable Electric Grill
Kenyon’s Floridian snags third place for its portable and durable stainless steel construction paired with an ample 228 square inches of grilling area.
Specifications
- Grilling Surface – 228 square inches
- Temperature Range – Up to 600°F
- Power Source – Electric
- Portability – Lightweight with locking lid and integrated handle
Pros
- Durable and corrosion resistant stainless steel body
- Versatile temperature range up to 600°F
- Removable thermostat for precision heat control
- Dishwasher safe removable grilling grate
- Locking lid and briefcase handle for portability
Cons
- Smaller grilling capacity than other models
- High price tag
Best For: Portability, durability, precision cooking
Kenyon thoughtfully designed the Floridian for portable precision grilling in any environment. Its durable stainless steel construction offers excellent corrosion and rust resistance compared to other models, providing a long-lasting grill capable of consistent outdoor performance year after year. A generous temperature range topping out at 600°F gives grillers precise control for searing, smoking, or slow cooking foods to perfection. While offering a slightly smaller grilling surface than other picks, the Floridian’s integrated briefcase-style handle and locking lid make transport a breeze. Stainless steel removable parts like the dishwasher safe grilling grate further simplify clean-up. If you seek a durable and portable grill adept at cooking foods with precision virtually anywhere, Kenyon’s Floridian is an excellent choice worth the investment.
4.Excelvan Portable Electric BBQ Grill
Excelvan’s aptly named portable electric grill offers an extra large grilling surface with the convenience of a tabletop grill style and budget-friendly price point.
Specifications
- Grilling Surface – 240 square inches
- Temperature Range – Up to 446°F
- Power Source – Electric
- Portability – Tabletop legs with locking lid
Pros
- Budget friendly price
- 240 square inch grilling capacity
- Chrome plated warming rack
- Easy assembly with no tools required
- Portable tabletop legs for cooking anywhere
Cons
- Durability concerns with inconsistent heating
- Low quality materials prone to rust
Best For: Budget buyers, small spaces, tabletop grilling
Excelvan’s portable electric grill belies its small tabletop footprint with an extra large 240 square inch chrome plated grilling grate capable of handling over 15 servings. Users praise the simple tool-free assembly and folding stainless steel legs that transform the unit into a compact suitcase-style design for cookouts on the go. The addition of a chrome warming rack adds space to keep food warm while grilling up additional items below. While the portability and price certainly impress for the size, Excelvan does cut corners on materials to keep costs low. The grill’s thin walls and inconsistent heating don’t stand up well to the competition. However, for those seeking an extra large capacity tabletop electric grill on a strict budget, Excelvan’s portable model fills the role nicely.
5.Techwood Smokeless Tabletop BBQ Grill
For smaller spaces, Techwood’s innovative smokeless electric grill takes the final spot for its compact and convenient tabletop design.
Specifications
- Grilling Surface – 200 square inches
- Temperature Range – Up to 446°F
- Power Source – Electric
- Portability – Tabletop footprint
Pros
- Innovative smokeless grill design
- Durable nonstick grilling surface
- Over 200 square inch capacity
- Adjustable thermostat
- Locking lid protects controls during transport
Cons
- Smaller capacity than other models
- Durability issues reported over time
Best For: Small spaces, smoke-free cooking
Weighing under 10 pounds with a slim tabletop oriented design, the Techwood smokeless grill proves perfect for apartment dwellers and tailgaters lacking the space for a full sized model. Unique sloped grilling plates guide oil and grease away from the heating element into a collection tray, preventing smoke buildup no matter what’s cooking. The nonstick surface simplifies clean-up, while an adjustable thermostat grants flexibility for various cooking techniques. Cabinet style fold out legs allow the unit to be setup virtually anywhere. While durability issues arise over time with its thinner metal construction, Techwood’s innovative smokeless design offers those with limited space a compact and convenient grilling solution worth considering for on the go cooking.
Conclusion
While selecting the best outdoor electric grill ultimately comes down to your specific cooking needs, any of these top rated models are sure to satisfy your craving for grilled meats, veggies, kabobs and more without the mess of charcoal or propane. Boasting durable constructions, exceptional power, ample cooking capacity, and thoughtful portability focused design, these electric grills grant outdoor cooking convenience for patio and backyard chefs alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are outdoor electric grills safe?
A: Outdoor electric grills utilize highly efficient heating elements similar to an indoor kitchen appliance, granting safe operation for outdoor use so long as basic precautions are followed. Ensure your electric grill is not located underneath low hanging foliage and never operate near live electrical wires or during wet conditions.
Q: Do electric grills actually get hot enough to sear meats and veggies?
A: The best performing outdoor electric grills boast heating elements and temperature ranges exceeding 450°F, certainly adequate for premier searing and tenderizing of steaks, burgers, chicken, fish and various veggies. Models like the Kenyon Floridian reach up to 600°F for authentic barbecue searing capabilities rivaling propane and charcoal grills.
Q: Which is better, stainless steel or porcelain enameled grill grates?
A Both offer excellent durability and heat retention. Stainless steel is more resistant to rust and corrosion while porcelain enameled grates simplify cleaning. High end grills offer removable grill grates made from both materials for finding the right match for your cooking style.
Q: Can I bring my electric grill camping or to the park?
A: While some plug-in only electric models limit transportable use, brands like Kenyon Floridian, Cuisinart Grillster, and others allow the grill itself to be detached and transported from the stand for tabletop setup virtually anywhere outdoors. If camping or visiting parks lacking power access, propane or charcoal models remain a better match.
Q: How difficult is assembly and use?
A: A hallmark perk of electric grills comes down to convenience. Tool-free assembly with folding stand designs allow most models to be setup for cooking in under 10 minutes. Large precise lid-mounted thermostats and integrated grease management transform grilling into a nearly effortless affair.
