Enjoying smoky, flame-kissed barbecue doesn’t require a giant backyard or a thousand-dollar grill. In 2026, compact gas grills have become more powerful, space-efficient, and feature-rich than ever, offering 5-burner cooking systems, high BTU output, and foldable designs that fit easily on small patios or balconies.
If you’re living in an apartment, condo, or small home and want a full-size grilling experience in a compact footprint, these gas grills deliver big performance without taking over your outdoor space. They also make cleanup simple and store away neatly between uses.
Quick Comparison: Top Compact Gas Grills Under $500
| Model | Cooking Area | BTUs | Burners | Side Burners | Key Features | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nexgrill Deluxe 5-Burner Propane Barbecue Gas Grill 720-1046A | 771 sq. in. | 75,000 | 5 main | 1 ceramic sear | Side table, built-in thermometer, stylish cabinet design | Large meals in small spaces | Check Price |
| Royal Gourmet GA5403B 5 Burner Propane Gas Grill | 700+ sq. in. | 74,000 | 5 main | 1 side + 1 rear | Cabinet storage, sleek design, even heating | Balcony grilling & backyard parties | Check Price |
| Weber Traveler Portable Gas Grill | 320 sq. in. | 13,000 | 1 | No | Foldable frame, compact & portable | Small patios, camping, balconies | Check Price |
Best Compact Gas Grill Under 500
1. Nexgrill Deluxe 5-Burner Propane Barbecue Gas Grill — Best Overall Compact Grill
- 【SPACIOUS COOKING SURFACE】With 771 sq. in. of total cooking space, this propane grill provides plenty of room to prepare a variety of foods at once such as meats, vegetables and more,…
For those who want full-size grilling power in a space-conscious design, the Nexgrill Deluxe 5-Burner is one of the best-balanced compact grills under $500 in 2026.
Cooking Power and Area
It delivers 75,000 BTUs across 5 stainless steel main burners and a ceramic searing side burner, letting you sear steaks, grill vegetables, and cook large meals simultaneously. With 771 square inches of total cooking space, it handles big batches while still fitting neatly against a wall or corner on your patio.
Design and Features
Despite its generous power, it’s designed for small footprints, with sleek side tables for prep space, a built-in thermometer, enclosed cabinet storage for propane, and durable cast-iron grates for excellent heat retention.
It’s easy to clean thanks to a porcelain-coated firebox and removable grease tray, and the side burner is ideal for sauces or sautéing veggies.
Pros
- High total BTU output for fast heating
- Large cooking area fits family meals
- Ceramic side sear burner adds versatility
- Compact cabinet design saves space
- Easy ignition and simple cleanup
Cons
- Larger than ultra-compact grills like Weber Traveler
- Needs more space clearance on balconies
Verdict: The Nexgrill Deluxe is the best all-around compact gas grill under $500, offering full-size grilling performance in a stylish, space-efficient footprint.
2. Royal Gourmet GA5403B 5-Burner Gas Grill — Best for Even Heat and Style
- Spacious Cooking Space: 738 sq. in. cooking space in total, including 566 sq. in. porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates and 172 sq. in. chrome-plated steel wire warming rack that accommodate about 34 hamburgers simultaneously
If you want a stylish and well-engineered grill that heats evenly and fits on compact patios, the Royal Gourmet GA5403B offers excellent performance at a budget-friendly price.
Power and Cooking System
It features five main burners producing 74,000 BTUs, plus a side burner and rear burner, providing precise temperature control across the entire cooking surface. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates retain heat beautifully, giving you consistent sears without flare-ups.
The 700+ square inch cooking area is ideal for hosting friends while still fitting easily on a small deck or patio.
Build and Usability
This model’s cabinet-style base hides the propane tank and offers storage, while the sleek blue finish adds a stylish pop to outdoor spaces. The flame tamers distribute heat evenly and reduce cold spots, and the built-in thermometer helps monitor internal temps without opening the lid.
Pros
- Even heat distribution across entire grate
- Plenty of burner control options
- Sleek, modern cabinet design
- Side and rear burners expand cooking flexibility
- Great value under $500
Cons
- Slightly heavier than the Nexgrill
- Takes up a bit more horizontal space
Verdict: The Royal Gourmet GA5403B is the best compact grill for even heat and multi-zone cooking, perfect for small patios where you still want restaurant-level grilling results.
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3. Weber Traveler Portable Gas Grill — Best Ultra-Compact Balcony Grill
- The Weber Traveler Black Grill allows you to grill on-the-go with an enameled, cast-iron cooking grate offering superior heat retention, flavor infusion, and an attractive appearance
For tiny spaces or on-the-go grilling, the Weber Traveler Portable Gas Grill delivers surprisingly powerful performance in an ultra-compact folding design that’s perfect for balconies or camping.
Portability and Power
This grill gives you 13,000 BTUs of heat across a 320 sq. in. surface, which is enough to cook 15 burgers at once while staying small enough to fold flat and roll away when not in use. It runs on 1 lb. propane cylinders but can be adapted to standard 20 lb. tanks for home use.
The precision heat control dial and porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates allow excellent searing and easy cleaning, even in a portable form factor.
Compact Design
The Traveler’s integrated cart folds flat with one hand and fits in closets, sheds, or even the trunk of a car. It’s lightweight yet stable and has built-in side hooks to hang tools while cooking.
Pros
- Extremely compact folding design
- Heats fast and cooks evenly
- Durable Weber build quality
- Easy storage for very small patios/balconies
- Great for travel or tailgating
Cons
- Smaller cooking area than 5-burner grills
- No side burners or storage cabinets
Verdict: The Weber Traveler is the best ultra-compact gas grill under $500, ideal for small balconies, RV patios, or portable grilling on trips.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Compact Gas Grill
Size vs Space:
Measure your balcony or patio. Aim for grills under 50″ wide if space is tight, and ensure you leave clearance from walls or railings for heat safety.
BTUs and Burners:
Higher BTUs give faster preheat and stronger searing. 3–5 burners provide better temperature zoning for different foods.
Cooking Area:
300–400 sq. in. is ideal for 2–4 people. 700+ sq. in. works if you occasionally host larger groups.
Build Quality:
Look for stainless steel burners, porcelain-coated grates, and powder-coated fireboxes for durability in outdoor conditions.
Side Burners / Storage:
Side burners expand your cooking options, while cabinet bases save space by hiding propane tanks and storing tools.
Portability:
If you have very limited space or want to stow your grill after use, choose a foldable or wheeled design.
Fuel and Ignition:
Push-button ignitions are easiest. Propane is the cleanest and most convenient fuel for compact spaces.
FAQs
Q: Are these safe for balconies?
Yes — as long as your building or HOA allows propane grills and you follow clearance guidelines (usually 2–3 feet from walls/railings).
Q: How many people can these grills cook for?
The Nexgrill and Royal Gourmet can cook for 6–10 people. The Weber Traveler suits 2–4 people.
Q: Are small gas grills hard to clean?
No — most have removable grease trays and porcelain grates that wipe clean easily.
Q: Can they use 20 lb. propane tanks?
Yes — the full-size models are designed for them, and the Weber Traveler can use a 20 lb. tank with an adapter hose.
Q: Do compact grills lose heat faster?
Only if they have thin materials. All three of these have solid construction and retain heat well.
Final Verdict
- Best Overall Compact Grill: Nexgrill Deluxe 5-Burner 720-1046A — powerful, full-featured, and space-efficient.
- Best for Even Heat & Style: Royal Gourmet GA5403B — sleek design and even heat across all zones.
- Best Ultra-Compact Option: Weber Traveler — perfect for tiny patios, balconies, or mobile grilling.
[Check Today’s Best Deals on Amazon] — Bring the flavor of outdoor barbecue to your small space with the best compact gas grills under $500 in 2026, and enjoy big grilling power without sacrificing space.
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