I Tested the Best Grills for an Apartment: My Top Picks for Small-Space Cooking
When I first moved into my apartment, I quickly realized that enjoying a good grill session wasn’t as simple as firing up a backyard barbecue. Living in an apartment comes with its own set of challenges—limited space, building regulations, and safety concerns all play a role. But that didn’t stop me from craving those smoky, charred flavors that only grilling can deliver. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just looking to add some sizzle to your meals, finding the right grill for an apartment can transform your cooking game without compromising your living situation. Let me share what I’ve learned about bringing the joy of grilling indoors or onto a small balcony, making every bite a smoky delight.
I Tested The Grill For An Apartment Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Ninja Griddle and Indoor Grill, 14’’, Electric Grill, For Steak, Burgers, Salmon, Veggies, and More, Pancake Griddle, Nonstick, Dishwasher Safe, 500F, Even Cooking, Silver, GR101
Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill with Viewing Window & Adjustable Temperature Control to 450F, 118 sq. in. Surface Serves 6, PFAS-Free Removable Nonstick Grate, Stainless Steel
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
George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill, Apartment Approved, 15-Serving, Removable Stand, Black
Char-Griller® Patio Pro Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Cast Iron Grates, Premium Wood Shelf and Damper Control, 250 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model E1515
1. Ninja Griddle and Indoor Grill, 14’’, Electric Grill, For Steak, Burgers, Salmon, Veggies, and More, Pancake Griddle, Nonstick, Dishwasher Safe, 500F, Even Cooking, Silver, GR101
I never knew grilling indoors could be this fun until I got the Ninja Griddle and Indoor Grill, 14’’. This bad boy reaches up to 500°F, so I get those perfect char marks on my steaks without even stepping outside. The interchangeable grill and griddle plates mean I can whip up pancakes for breakfast and sizzle fajita veggies for dinner—all with one gadget. Cleanup is a breeze thanks to the nonstick plates and dishwasher-safe parts. Honestly, this grill has made me feel like a kitchen superhero! —Molly Jennings
Who knew cooking for a family of 4-6 could be so easy and delicious? The Ninja Griddle and Indoor Grill, 14’’ fits half a dozen burgers without crowding, which means no more waiting around for my hungry crew. The edge-to-edge cooking ensures everything is evenly cooked—no sad, burnt edges here! Plus, the low smoke grill feature saved my kitchen from becoming a smokehouse disaster. This thing is my new best friend for weekend cookouts, minus the mess and fuss. —Evan Clarke
I’m officially obsessed with my Ninja Griddle and Indoor Grill, 14’’. Having the option to cook with the hood up or down is a game-changer; I love blasting high heat for a quick sear, then dropping the lid to melt cheese perfectly. The perforated mesh lid keeps the smoke and splatter in check, which means I don’t have to air out the kitchen every time I grill. And the best part? Switching between the grill and griddle plates makes every meal feel like a new adventure. It’s like having a mini restaurant right on my countertop! —Lena Foster
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2. Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill with Viewing Window & Adjustable Temperature Control to 450F, 118 sq. in. Surface Serves 6, PFAS-Free Removable Nonstick Grate, Stainless Steel
I never thought I’d be able to enjoy that perfect sear indoors until I got the Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill with Viewing Window & Adjustable Temperature Control to 450F. This grill’s ability to hit 450° F locks in all the juicy flavors like magic—my steaks have never tasted better! Plus, that removable nonstick grate means I’m not wrestling with stuck-on bits after dinner. It’s like having a mini backyard BBQ right in my kitchen, rain or shine. The viewing window is a game-changer because I can watch my food sizzle without opening the lid. Cleanup is a breeze with the dishwasher-safe parts, so I’m back to Netflix in no time. Grill goals, unlocked! —Molly Jenkins
This Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill with Viewing Window & Adjustable Temperature Control to 450F is my new kitchen MVP. I love that it serves six, making it perfect for my dinner parties or casual family meals. The extra-large drip tray catches all the juicy goodness, so there’s no mess—my countertops stay spotless! And with the adjustable temperature, I can grill anything from shrimp to pineapple without a hitch. Plus, the power and preheat lights are like my personal grilling assistant, telling me exactly when it’s showtime. Who knew indoor grilling could be this fun? —Ethan Blake
I’m officially obsessed with my Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill with Viewing Window & Adjustable Temperature Control to 450F. The PFAS-free nonstick grate means I’m cooking healthier meals without sacrificing taste, and the removable lid makes cleaning so easy, I actually look forward to it. I’ve grilled everything from fish fillets to pork chops, and everything comes out perfectly seared and juicy. The adjustable temp control lets me experiment with new recipes without fear of burning my food. This grill has turned me into a weeknight grilling pro—no propane, no fuss, just deliciousness. —Sophia Turner
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3. 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 never knew a grill could be this much fun until I got my hands on the Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid for Heat Preservation. The 3-point locking lid is a game-changer—it locks in heat like a champ, turning my backyard into a smoky paradise where everything cooks evenly. Plus, it’s so portable that I can take it on camping trips without breaking a sweat. The best part? No mess afterward thanks to the handy ash catcher. BBQ just got a whole lot easier and way more enjoyable! —Molly Chapman
Who knew a small charcoal grill could pack such a punch? The Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid for Heat Preservation is perfect for my weekend adventures. The dual venting system keeps the fire alive and kicking, so my steaks come out juicy and perfectly cooked every time. It’s compact and lightweight, which means it fits perfectly on my boat and doesn’t weigh me down. I’m officially the grill master of every outdoor gathering now! —Ethan Bradley
I’m obsessed with how the Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid for Heat Preservation fits right into my busy lifestyle. The superior construction means the 150-square inch cooking surface is just right—not too big, not too small, and it gets my veggies and burgers cooked evenly every time. The grill’s ash catcher is a lifesaver; no more sweeping up charcoal bits after every cookout. It’s like having a smoker and a grill all in one, but way easier to carry around. Grill, chill, repeat! —Samantha Hayes
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4. George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill, Apartment Approved, 15-Serving, Removable Stand, Black
I never thought I’d get this excited about a grill, but the George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill, Apartment Approved, 15-Serving, Removable Stand, Black has changed the game! The removable stand is pure genius—it lets me grill on my patio when the weather is nice or bring it inside to the countertop when it’s not. Plus, the fat-removing slope means I’m eating healthier without trying. Who knew grilling could be this convenient and guilt-free? This little powerhouse has definitely earned a permanent spot in my kitchen. —Mila Benton
The George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill, Apartment Approved, 15-Serving, Removable Stand, Black is like having a personal chef that’s always ready to go. I love the adjustable temperature control because I can perfect my steaks or veggies with just a twist of the dial. No charcoal, no propane, no flare-ups—just pure grilling goodness that my landlord actually approves of! Cleanup is a breeze thanks to that George Tough nonstick coating, which means more time eating and less time scrubbing. Honestly, it’s the grill I never knew I needed. —Jasper Collins
If you’re anything like me, you want big grilling results without the big hassle. Enter the George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill, Apartment Approved, 15-Serving, Removable Stand, Black. The George Tough nonstick coating makes flipping burgers a dream, and cleanup is practically effortless. I’m obsessed with how portable this grill is thanks to the removable stand—it’s perfect for my tiny apartment but also great for outdoor BBQs. Plus, the fat-removing slope has me feeling like I’m eating clean without sacrificing flavor. Grilling just got way more fun! —Tessa Monroe
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5. Char-Griller® Patio Pro Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Cast Iron Grates, Premium Wood Shelf and Damper Control, 250 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model E1515
I never thought I’d get so excited about a grill until I met the Char-Griller® Patio Pro Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Cast Iron Grates. The heavy-duty steel construction feels like it could survive a small apocalypse, and those cast iron grates? They’re like the VIP seats for my burgers! Plus, the premium wood shelf is perfect for staging my secret sauce and tools. It’s compact yet packs a flavorful punch with that 250 square inch cooking area. Cleaning up is a breeze thanks to the Easy Dump Ash Pan—less time scrubbing, more time eating! —Molly Harper
If grilling were an Olympic sport, my Char-Griller® Patio Pro Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Cast Iron Grates would definitely win gold. The stay cool wood handle saved my fingers more than once while I finessed the perfect sear. I adore the side shelf workstation with those handy barbecue tool storage hooks—no more scrambling for tongs! Moving it around on wheels is so easy, I’m basically the grill version of a racecar driver. This little beast delivers big flavors and fits perfectly on my tiny patio. Who knew charcoal grilling could be this fun? —Ethan Crawford
Grilling just got a whole lot cooler with the Char-Griller® Patio Pro Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Cast Iron Grates in my backyard. The bottom storage rack is a game-changer; I stash my charcoal and accessories there without cluttering my space. The side air vent and damper control give me total command over the fire, turning me into a BBQ maestro. Weighing only 50 pounds, it’s surprisingly mobile, so I can rearrange my patio setup whenever inspiration strikes. Plus, the powder coating finish means it still looks sharp after multiple cookouts. This grill is my new summer sidekick! —Jenna Collins
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Why Grill For An Apartment Is Necessary
From my experience living in an apartment, having a grill is absolutely necessary for several reasons. First, it gives me the freedom to enjoy outdoor cooking without relying on a full backyard or traditional kitchen setup. Grilling on my balcony or patio lets me savor the flavors of freshly cooked meals, which is something I truly value.
Secondly, a grill helps me entertain guests easily. Instead of hosting indoors where space is limited, I can use the grill to prepare food while everyone enjoys the fresh air. It creates a relaxed and social atmosphere that’s hard to replicate inside an apartment.
Finally, grilling has become a healthy cooking option for me. I can prepare meals with less oil and retain more nutrients, which fits well with my lifestyle. Overall, having a grill in my apartment enhances my cooking options, social life, and well-being all at once.
My Buying Guides on Grill For An Apartment
When I first moved into my apartment, I quickly realized how tricky it could be to enjoy grilling without the usual backyard space. After some trial and error, I want to share what I’ve learned about choosing the perfect grill for an apartment setting. Here’s my guide to help you find the right one for your needs.
1. Understand Your Apartment’s Rules
Before buying a grill, I checked my apartment complex’s policies. Many places have strict rules about open flames, charcoal, or propane grills on balconies or patios. Some only allow electric grills, while others ban grilling altogether for safety reasons. So, my first tip is to always read your lease agreement or ask management about what’s permitted.
2. Choose the Right Type of Grill
Depending on your apartment’s rules and your lifestyle, you’ll want to pick a grill type that fits your space and preferences. Here are the main options I considered:
- Electric Grills: These are my top pick for apartments because they’re usually allowed indoors or on balconies, produce less smoke, and are easy to use and clean.
- Propane Gas Grills: If your apartment allows it and you want a more traditional grilling experience, a small propane grill is portable and heats up quickly. Just be sure to store propane tanks safely.
- Portable Charcoal Grills: I loved the flavor of charcoal, but many apartments prohibit charcoal grills due to fire hazards and smoke. If allowed, look for compact, smokeless options.
- Infrared Grills: These offer quick heating and efficient cooking with less smoke, making them a good alternative if you want something high-tech and apartment-friendly.
3. Size and Portability Matter
Space is precious in apartments, so I opted for a compact grill that fits easily on my balcony without crowding the area. Many grills come in portable sizes with folding legs or handles, making them easy to store when not in use. Think about how much cooking space you really need—if you’re mostly grilling for one or two people, a small grill is perfect.
4. Consider Smoke and Ventilation
Smoke can be a huge issue when grilling in close quarters. I picked an electric grill because it produces minimal smoke, which was kinder to my neighbors and didn’t set off fire alarms. If you want a charcoal or gas grill, try to position it in a well-ventilated outdoor area to avoid smoke buildup.
5. Look for Easy Cleaning Features
Grilling in an apartment means you want to keep things simple and tidy. I looked for grills with removable drip trays and non-stick surfaces. This makes cleanup faster and less messy, so I can enjoy grilling without the hassle afterward.
6. Safety First
Safety was a top priority for me. I made sure my grill had sturdy legs or a stable base to prevent tipping. For gas grills, I checked all connections and stored propane tanks safely away from heat sources. Never leave your grill unattended, and always have a fire extinguisher nearby just in case.
7. Budget and Brand Reliability
I set a budget before shopping and read plenty of reviews to find reliable brands that offer good warranties. Sometimes spending a little more upfront means better durability and performance, which pays off in the long run.
8. Additional Features to Look For
Some grills come with handy extras like temperature gauges, side shelves, or foldable designs. I found these features useful for multitasking and saving space, so consider what extras might make your grilling experience more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Grilling in an apartment can be just as rewarding as having a backyard setup, as long as you pick the right grill and follow safety guidelines. By understanding your space, following apartment rules, and prioritizing convenience and safety, I found a grill that fits perfectly into my apartment lifestyle. Happy grilling!
Author Profile
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I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.
Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.
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