Best outdoor electric grill
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
The Weber Q 1400 is our top pick for the best outdoor electric grill in 2026, thanks to its even heating, sturdy build, and reliable performance.
For budget-minded buyers, the Char-Broil TRU-Infrared delivers impressive sear without flare-ups, while the George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Grill is the most versatile choice for spaces where a dedicated outdoor unit isn't practical.
Outdoor electric grills have become a go-to solution for anyone who wants real grilled flavor without the hassle of propane tanks, charcoal, or open flames. They heat up fast, need minimal cleanup, and many models double as indoor appliances when the weather turns foul. Choosing the right one comes down to three questions: how much space do you have, how many people are you feeding, and how much effort are you willing to put into setup and storage. The best electric grills for 2026 balance consistent heat, durable construction, and sensible features – we’ve sorted through the options to save you the guesswork.
Weber Q 1400
the do-it-all default
4.7out of 5The Weber Q 1400 is the most well-rounded electric grill we’ve found. Its porcelain-enameled lid and cast-aluminum body hold steady temperature across the cooking surface, and the 189-square-inch grate gives you room for six burgers or a whole chicken. It’s not the cheapest option, but the build quality and even heat make it a long-term investment.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Electric Patio Bistro
the infrared specialist
4.5out of 5The Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Electric Patio Bistro stands out for its infrared cooking system, which reduces flare-ups while delivering a solid sear. It’s surprisingly affordable for the performance, and the rectangular cooking surface gives you more usable space than many round grills in the same price range. It does run a little slower to reach top heat, but once there, it holds temp well.
Price range: $
Check price on Amazon →George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Grill
the ultimate two-in-one
4.0out of 5The George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Grill is the most versatile of the bunch: use it on the patio for a quick cookout or bring it inside on a rainy day. It heats fast, grills quickly, and the non-stick surface makes cleanup almost effortless. That said, the cooking area is smaller than the others, and the lid doesn’t close fully over thicker cuts, so it’s best for moderate portions.
Price range: $
Check price on Amazon →| Award | Model | Our score | Price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall | Weber Q 1400 | 4.7 / 5 | $$ | Buy this if you want a dependable, well-made grill that cooks evenly every time and will h | Check price → |
| Runner-up | Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Electric Patio Bistro | 4.5 / 5 | $ | Buy this if you want a budget-friendly grill that sears nicely and won’t send smoke and fl | Check price → |
| Best value | George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Grill | 4.0 / 5 | $ | Buy this if you live in an apartment or variable climate and want one grill that works bot | Check price → |
The picks in detail
1. Weber Q 1400: the do-it-all default
Best overallThe Weber Q 1400 is the most well-rounded electric grill we’ve found. Its porcelain-enameled lid and cast-aluminum body hold steady temperature across the cooking surface, and the 189-square-inch grate gives you room for six burgers or a whole chicken. It’s not the cheapest option, but the build quality and even heat make it a long-term investment.
Pros
- Exceptionally even heat distribution with minimal hot spots
- Solid construction that feels built to last for years
- Compact footprint fits easily on a small balcony or tabletop
- Simple push-button ignition and reliable temperature dial
Cons
- Heavier than many competitors, making it less portable
- No built-in temperature gauge on the lid (needs a separate thermometer for precision)
- Price is higher than other electric grills of similar size
Who it’s for
Buy this if you want a dependable, well-made grill that cooks evenly every time and will hold up to regular use for seasons to come.Who should skip it
Skip it if you need a lightweight grill for tailgating or camping, or if your budget is strictly under a couple hundred dollars.2. Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Electric Patio Bistro: the infrared specialist
Runner-upThe Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Electric Patio Bistro stands out for its infrared cooking system, which reduces flare-ups while delivering a solid sear. It’s surprisingly affordable for the performance, and the rectangular cooking surface gives you more usable space than many round grills in the same price range. It does run a little slower to reach top heat, but once there, it holds temp well.
Pros
- Infrared technology nearly eliminates flare-ups from dripping fat
- Generous cooking area for its price class – fits a dozen hot dogs and six burgers side by side
- Very affordable for the performance and features
- Easy to clean with a removable grease tray and non-stick grates
Cons
- Takes longer to heat up than some coil-based electric grills
- Lid is lightweight and doesn’t retain heat as well as Weber’s design
- Not recommended for indoor use (strictly an outdoor grill)
Who it’s for
Buy this if you want a budget-friendly grill that sears nicely and won’t send smoke and flare-ups into your face.Who should skip it
Skip it if you need a grill that doubles for indoor cooking, or if you prefer a heavy, premium build that feels indestructible.3. George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Grill: the ultimate two-in-one
Best valueThe George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Grill is the most versatile of the bunch: use it on the patio for a quick cookout or bring it inside on a rainy day. It heats fast, grills quickly, and the non-stick surface makes cleanup almost effortless. That said, the cooking area is smaller than the others, and the lid doesn’t close fully over thicker cuts, so it’s best for moderate portions.
Pros
- Can be used indoors or outdoors – no dedicated patio space required
- Very lightweight and easy to store in a cupboard or closet
- Non-stick grates clean up with just a paper towel
- Heats up in minutes with a simple plug-in design
Cons
- Smaller grilling surface limits how many burgers you can cook at once
- Lid doesn’t seal tightly over thick items like bone-in chicken or steaks
- Build feels less sturdy than dedicated outdoor models; parts may wear faster
Who it’s for
Buy this if you live in an apartment or variable climate and want one grill that works both on the balcony and on the kitchen counter.Who should skip it
Skip it if you regularly cook for more than four people, or if you prefer a heavy-duty grill that can handle thick cuts with the lid closed.Best for specific needs
Best for consistent results every time
If you value even heat and repeatable performance above all else, the Weber Q 1400 is your grill. Its thick cast-aluminum body and porcelain-enameled lid lock in temperature, so burgers, chicken, and vegetables come out evenly cooked across the whole grate. This makes it the top choice for anyone who cooks by feel and wants predictable results, whether you’re a weekend warrior or a daily griller. Our pick: Weber Q 1400.
Best for flavorful searing on a budget
The Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Electric Patio Bistro delivers restaurant-style sear marks and a juicy interior without the price tag of its competition. Its infrared technology radiates heat directly into the food, cutting down on flare-ups while still giving you that smoky crust. It’s the ideal pick for budget-conscious grillers who refuse to compromise on flavor. Our pick: Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Electric Patio Bistro.
Best for apartment dwellers and small spaces
When you’re short on square footage and don’t have a dedicated patio, the George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Grill is a lifesaver. It’s compact enough to stow in a closet, light enough to carry outside, and safe to use indoors with its smoke-suppressing design. Perfect for grilled cheese, steaks, or vegetables on a weeknight without a full outdoor setup. Our pick: George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Grill.
Our verdict
No single outdoor electric grill suits every situation, but the Weber Q 1400 comes closest for its build quality and consistent heat. If your budget is tighter or you need infrared searing, the Char-Broil TRU-Infrared is a steal. And for those who want one appliance that works inside and out, the George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Grill is the flexible alternative. Whichever you choose, any of these will get you grilling without the gas tank – and that’s a win for convenience.
Frequently asked questions
What should I look for in an outdoor electric grill?
For outdoor use, prioritize cooking surface area, lid construction, and how the heating element distributes heat across the grates. A larger cooking surface lets you cook enough food at once for a family meal without running multiple batches, which is the primary practical advantage of an outdoor electric model over a compact indoor grill. A well-fitted lid is important for outdoor grilling: it traps heat and allows you to cook with indirect heat for thicker cuts, rather than just searing on open grates. Heat distribution matters because electric grills with a single heating element often have hot spots toward the center and cooler zones at the edges, which means you need to rotate food during cooking. Models with cast-iron grates or infrared heating distribute heat more evenly across the full cooking surface.
Can I use an outdoor electric grill in the rain?
Generally no, and this is a meaningful limitation. Standard outdoor electric grills are not waterproof or rain-rated, and using a plugged-in electric appliance in rain is a safety hazard. Most manufacturers explicitly state the grill should be used in dry conditions and stored covered when not in use. Some models have higher weather-resistance ratings for outdoor storage, but even those are not designed for use while it’s raining. If you grill outdoors frequently and rain is unpredictable in your area, plan to use a covered patio or grill umbrella. This is the main practical difference between electric and gas for outdoor use: a gas grill is more tolerant of light rain because the burner and ignition are separated from the cooking surface.
How far do I need to be from an outlet to use an outdoor electric grill?
Most outdoor electric grills ship with a cord in the range of five to six feet, which limits how far from an outlet you can place the grill. For patio use near an exterior outlet, this is usually fine. For deck setups where the nearest outlet is further away, you’ll need a heavy-duty outdoor extension cord rated for the grill’s wattage, typically 15 to 20 amps. Never use a standard indoor extension cord with an outdoor grill: undersized cords can overheat at high wattage draws, which is a fire hazard. Check the grill’s wattage, divide by 120 (standard US voltage) to get amps, and buy an outdoor-rated extension cord with an amp rating above that number. A 1,800-watt grill draws 15 amps, so a 20-amp outdoor-rated cord provides appropriate headroom.