In our tests, the Weber Q 1200 topped the competition in grilling performance. Its heavy-duty cast-aluminum firebox was the best at evenly absorbing and reflecting heat, providing the most consistent grilling of all the portables weber spirit 2 we tested. An electric push-button ignition and easy-to-read heat-control dial make the Q 1200 simple to start and adjust. Though the grill weighs a hefty 30 pounds, the comfortable side handles make it easy to carry.
After we preheated it for five minutes on high, the Grill2Go reached over 600 degrees Fahrenheit, while the Weber Q 1200 never broke 525 °F. Char-Broil claims its “TRU Infrared cooking system” eliminates flare-ups, but we still had to manage moderate flares while cooking burgers, chicken, and brats. Flipping burgers is easy and straightforward with the non-stick porcelain coated cast iron grates, and the ample cooking space easily accommodates at least 16 burgers. The burner tents effectively reduce the occurrence of flare-ups, so there’s less danger while cooking and no burn marks on your food.
The Q 1200’s small fold-out side tables are handy for keeping grill tools within reach, though we wouldn’t feel confident resting a large tray brimming with meat or other heavy things on them. The thermometer in the dome lid is nice, but it isn’t necessary other than for letting you know when the grill Blackstone Adventure is hot and ready. The Char-Broil Grill2Go can handle up to six large burger patties at a time without crowding. Foods such as bone-in chicken pieces and thick steaks require surround heat to cook thoroughly. You have the added chore of snuffing out hot coals and emptying ashes after grilling.
The Q 1200’s warranty covers most parts on the grill for five years. Cast-aluminum fireboxes are durable, corrosion resistant, and excellent at evenly absorbing and reflecting heat, so you have fewer hotspots. This means you don’t have to obsessively babysit your barbecued chicken to prevent excessive charring. Porcelain-coated cast-iron cooking grates are best at searing foods.
Charcoal is smokier than gas, a possible issue for smaller, fenced-in spaces. Food grilled over charcoal has that coveted backyard-grill smoky flavor. This larger version of our pick offers more cooking area and higher heat output. Maintaining any grill is a good way to make it last for many years. Thankfully, if you follow the right steps, cleaning the Char-Broil Performance 300 shouldn’t take much time.
Preventing grease and fire contact is especially important since the cooking grates on portable gas grills sit very close to the heating element (usually a 1- to 1½-inch clearance). Steel inserts that sit over the flame ports can help, as can a cleverly designed grilling grate that channels grease away from the fire. “Performance” is one of the series of Char-boil, but What does “300” mean? Having 300 square inches of primary cooking space, which is why it’s called “Performance 300”.
In addition, you don’t want a grill with bottom vents that sit above the coal bed; this design reduces airflow and can extinguish the fire prematurely. In addition, we promptly dismissed gas grills equipped with a coupling for a 20-pound propane cylinder. We prefer 1-pound liquid-propane tanks because they’re small and lightweight enough to stash in a backpack or tote bag. Portable gas grills come equipped with a coupling that fits 1-pound liquid-propane canisters . These mini propane cylinders are lightweight and packable, and they’re available at most hardware stores. From our review of the Char-Broil Performance 300 gas grill, you can tell that this model is for a family of four or less and couples.