Nov 15, 2026
A good BBQ grill can make outdoor cooking more enjoyable, whether you are preparing burgers for a family gathering, grilling steaks for dinner or cooking breakfast outdoors.
However, not every grill is designed for the same cooking style. From traditional charcoal models to convenient propane and electric options, BBQ grills come in different styles to suit various cooking needs, preferences and budgets.
Best BBQ grills under $100
For shoppers in the United States, Gadinsider has selected five affordable BBQ grills worth considering in 2026. Our picks are budget-friendly and under $100.
1. Cuisinart 14-inch Portable Charcoal Grill
The Cuisinart 14-inch Portable Charcoal Grill is designed for users who want traditional charcoal cooking in a compact, easy-to-carry package. Its 14-inch body provides 196 square inches of cooking space, making it suitable for preparing burgers, sausages and other grilled foods during camping trips, tailgates and small outdoor gatherings.
Key specs
- Type: Portable charcoal grill
- Cooking area: 196 square inches
- Weight: 4.2 pounds
- Grate material: Chrome-plated steel
- Firebox: Enamel-coated
- Fuel type: Charcoal
- Ventilation: Dual adjustable vents
Performance
The Cuisinart portable grill offers a simple way to enjoy charcoal cooking without carrying a full-sized BBQ setup. Its 196-square-inch cooking area provides enough room for smaller batches of food, making it a practical choice for camping, picnics and tailgating.
Pros
- Lightweight 4.2-pound design
- Compact 14-inch body for easier transportation
- Dual vents for airflow and heat adjustment
Cons
- Limited cooking space for larger gatherings
- Requires charcoal and manual fire management
Today's best deals
Cuisinart 14-Inch Portable Charcoal Grill — View at Amazon
2. Megamaster Tabletop 2-Burner Gas Grill
The Megamaster Tabletop 2-Burner Gas Grill is a convenient option for users who prefer propane cooking over charcoal. It features two burners with a combined output of 16,000 BTUs, allowing users to prepare different foods across its 199-square-inch cooking surface.
The grill uses stainless steel construction and comes with foldable legs and a locking lid for easier storage and transportation.
Key specs
- Brand: Megamaster
- Type: Tabletop propane grill
- Number of burners: Two
- Total heat output: 16,000 BTU
- Cooking area: 199 square inches
- Cooking grid: Stainless steel
- Fuel type: Propane
Performance
The Megamaster tabletop grill offers more control over outdoor cooking through its two-burner setup. With a combined output of 16,000 BTUs, it is designed to provide consistent heat for grilling different foods.
Pros
- Two burners with a combined 16,000 BTU output
- 199 square inches of cooking space
- Stainless steel construction and cooking grid
Cons
- Requires a compatible propane supply
- Smaller cooking area than full-sized barrel grills
Today's best deals
Megamaster Tabletop 2-Burner Gas Grill — View at Amazon
3. Kendane Barrel Charcoal Grill
The Kendane Barrel Charcoal Grill is designed for users who need more cooking space for backyard BBQs, family meals and outdoor gatherings. It offers nearly 500 square inches of cooking area, including porcelain-enameled steel wire grates and a chrome-plated warming rack.
Key specs
- Type: Barrel charcoal grill
- Fuel type: Charcoal
- Cooking area: Nearly 500 square inches
- Grate material: Porcelain-enameled steel wire
- Charcoal capacity: Up to 6.6 pounds
- Heat adjustment: Four-level adjustable charcoal pan
Performance
The Kendane barrel grill provides considerably more cooking space than compact portable models, making it suitable for users who regularly cook for families or groups. Its nearly 500-square-inch cooking area is designed to accommodate multiple burgers at once, while the warming rack provides additional space for keeping prepared food warm.
Pros
- Nearly 500 square inches of cooking space
- Can accommodate up to 12 burgers
- Four-level adjustable charcoal pan
Cons
- Requires more storage space than portable grills
Today's best deals
Kendane Barrel Charcoal Grill — View at Amazon
4. Chefman XL Electric Griddle
The Chefman XL Electric Griddle offers an alternative to traditional charcoal and propane BBQ grills. Instead of using an open flame, it relies on a 1500W electric heating system and an adjustable temperature control ranging from 200°F to 420°F.
Key specs
- Type: Electric griddle
- Cooking surface: 10 x 20 inches
- Wattage: 1500W
- Voltage: 120V
- Temperature range: 200°F to 420°F
- Surface: Non-stick
Performance
The Chefman XL Electric Griddle is useful for users who want additional cooking space without dealing with charcoal or propane. Its 10 x 20-inch surface can accommodate breakfast foods, vegetables, meat and other meals, making it a practical option for preparing multiple servings at once.
Pros
- Large 10 x 20-inch cooking surface
- Adjustable temperature from 200°F to 420°F
- 1500W electric heating system
Cons
- Requires an electrical outlet
Today's best deals
Chefman XL Electric Griddle — View at Amazon
5. Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill
The Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill is designed for users who want traditional charcoal grilling in a portable format. It features an 18.5-inch plated steel cooking grate and a 240-square-inch cooking area, offering more room than smaller 14-inch portable models.
Key specs
- Type: Portable charcoal grill
- Fuel type: Charcoal
- Cooking grate diameter: 18.5 inches
- Cooking area: 240 square inches
- Grate material: Plated steel
- Handle: Glass-reinforced nylon
Performance
The Weber Jumbo Joe provides a useful balance between portability and cooking space. Its 240-square-inch grate gives users more room to prepare food than compact tabletop charcoal grills, making it suitable for small family BBQs, camping and other outdoor cooking occasions.
Pros
- 240 square inches of cooking space
- 18.5-inch plated steel cooking grate
- Porcelain-enameled bowl and lid
Cons
- Requires charcoal and manual temperature management
- Smaller cooking area than larger barrel grills
Today's best deals
Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill — View at Amazon
