I remember one particular camping trip that nearly swore me off outdoor cooking for good. We had lugged a cumbersome, “portable” charcoal grill deep into the woods. The setup was messy, lighting the coals took an eternity, and controlling the temperature was a frustrating guessing game that resulted in burgers that were either raw in the middle or charred beyond recognition. The worst part? Packing out the hot, greasy, ash-covered mess. It was then I realized the dream wasn’t just about grilling outdoors; it was about doing it with convenience, control, and cleanliness. The search began for a gas-powered companion that was genuinely portable, powerful enough to sear a steak, and simple enough that it wouldn’t add stress to a relaxing day out. This quest for the perfect balance of power and portability is what leads many of us to products like the Megamaster 820-0065C 1 Burner Portable Gas Grill.
- DURABLE STEEL CONSTRUCTION: Built with a heat-resistant finish, the tabletop grill's sturdy steel frame provides long-lasting protection against wear and...
- STAINLESS STEEL BURNER: Offering a total of 11,000 BTUs from its high-powered burner, the camping grill delivers reliable and consistent heat, allowing for...
What to Consider Before Buying a Portable Propane Grill
A portable propane grill is more than just a piece of cooking equipment; it’s a key solution for unlocking culinary freedom far from your backyard kitchen. Whether you’re tailgating before the big game, enjoying a picnic on a remote riverbank, or simply maximizing a small apartment balcony, these compact grills provide the immediate heat, precise temperature control, and clean operation that charcoal or campfire cooking can’t match. The main benefit is spontaneity. With a small propane cylinder and a flick of a switch, you can be grilling in minutes, turning any outdoor space into your personal bistro without the hassle of ash, embers, or extensive cleanup.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who values convenience and mobility. This includes RV enthusiasts, campers, tailgaters, apartment dwellers with limited patio space, and anyone who wants to grill at a park or beach. It’s for the person who wants to replicate the home-grilling experience on the go. Conversely, it might not be suitable for those who host very large gatherings regularly or require multiple cooking zones for complex meals. A pitmaster who cherishes the slow, smoky ritual of traditional barbecue might also find the direct, high heat of a portable gas grill less suited to their style. For those needing more capacity, a full-sized, multi-burner grill would be a better long-term investment.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Pay close attention to two sets of dimensions: the cooking surface area and the overall footprint. A grill with 360 square inches of cooking space, like the Megamaster, is surprisingly large for a portable unit and can handle meals for a small family. Also, consider its folded dimensions and weight (around 15 lbs is excellent) to ensure it fits in your car trunk or storage space without being a burden to carry.
- Capacity/Performance: Performance is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). A single burner with 11,000 BTUs is quite powerful for this category, ensuring the grill heats up quickly and can achieve a proper sear. Look for a built-in thermometer, as it’s a critical feature for moving beyond hot dogs and burgers to more delicate items like chicken or fish that require precise temperature management.
- Materials & Durability: The firebox and lid material will dictate heat retention and longevity. Porcelain-coated steel is a good mid-range option that balances durability and cost. A stainless steel burner is essential, as it resists rust and corrosion far better than cheaper alternatives. Check for sturdy legs and a secure locking mechanism for the lid, which are vital for safe transport.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Simplicity is key in a portable grill. Look for features like a push-button ignition system, foldable legs that lock into place, and a removable grease tray. A simple grease management system is non-negotiable, as it makes cleanup exponentially faster and easier, especially when you’re away from home.
Understanding these factors will help you choose a portable grill that not only meets your immediate needs but also proves to be a reliable companion on all your future adventures. You can see if the Megamaster 820-0065C checks all these boxes and fits your specific outdoor cooking style.
While the Megamaster 820-0065C 1 Burner Portable Gas Grill is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- High-Heat Propane Gas BBQ Grill – This 4-burner gas grill with an additional 8,500 BTU side burner delivers a total of 46,500 BTU. Enjoy rapid...
- ❤ STAINLESS STEEL BURNERS: This propane gas grill has 3 Stainless Steel burners, can put out 30,000 BTU-per-hour with integrated piezoelectric ignition...
- Heavy-Duty Griddle Plate – Built with a 4mm thick, reinforced hot-pressed steel griddle that ensures excellent heat retention and durability. Perfect for...
Unboxing and First Impressions of the Megamaster 820-0065C
Upon unboxing the Megamaster 820-0065C 1 Burner Portable Gas Grill, the first thing that struck me was the surprisingly minimal assembly required. Many “portable” items arrive in a daunting number of pieces, but Megamaster has streamlined this process brilliantly. As one user noted with relief, the instructions are purely pictorial, making the setup intuitive and fast. I was ready to go in under 15 minutes, with the only tools needed being a simple screwdriver and pliers. There were no tiny bolts or complicated diagrams. You simply place the heat shield and cooking grate, slide in the grease tray, and attach the regulator hose. This ease of setup is a massive win for a product designed for convenience.
The grill feels solid yet impressively lightweight at just over 14 pounds. The alloy steel frame and bold red-and-black painted finish give it a classic, sturdy look. The foldable legs snap securely into place, and the lid latches down tightly, confirming its readiness for travel. The stainless steel handle is robust, and the inclusion of a built-in thermometer on the lid is a premium feature not always found at this price point. Compared to other portable grills I’ve tested, which can often feel flimsy or top-heavy, the Megamaster has a stable, well-balanced feel, inspiring confidence before the first flame is even lit. You can check the latest price and user photos to see the build quality for yourself.
What We Like
- Expansive 360 sq. inch cooking surface, huge for a portable model
- Powerful 11,000 BTU stainless steel burner heats up very quickly
- Extremely simple and fast assembly with minimal tools required
- Excellent portability features including foldable legs and a secure locking lid
- Includes premium features like a built-in thermometer and removable grease tray
Potential Drawbacks
- Cannot be stored on its side like a suitcase, limiting storage options
- Some users noted the handle can get hot during high-temperature cooking
A Deep Dive into the Megamaster 820-0065C’s Performance
After spending considerable time testing the Megamaster 820-0065C 1 Burner Portable Gas Grill across various settings—from a quick weeknight dinner on the patio to a full-day picnic at the park—we’ve developed a comprehensive understanding of its capabilities, quirks, and overall value. This isn’t just a grill; it’s an enabler of outdoor culinary experiences.
Cooking Power and Temperature Control: A Small Grill with Big Ambitions
The heart of any grill is its heat source, and the Megamaster’s single 11,000 BTU stainless steel burner does not disappoint. From the moment you hit the push-and-turn ignition, the grill comes to life with impressive speed. On our tests, it reached over 450°F in just a few minutes, a testament to the efficiency of its porcelain steel firebox. This high heat capability is exactly what you need for achieving a perfect sear on steaks and burgers, locking in juices and creating that coveted crust. As one experienced user rightly pointed out, this little gem “is perfect for steaks, burgers, ribs, etc. Everything I cook comes out Great! The high is really high.”
However, with great power comes the need for great control. Like many compact grills, the Megamaster can run very hot if you simply crank it to the maximum setting. We found the most success by following another user’s pro tip: keep the gas turned low for most cooking. The responsive regulator knob allows for fine-tuning the flame, and the built-in thermometer proves invaluable for maintaining a consistent temperature for longer cooks like chicken thighs or corn on the cob. The 360-square-inch cooking surface is genuinely massive for a portable unit. We comfortably fit six large burger patties with room to spare for sausages, validating the manufacturer’s claim of cooking up to 17 burgers at once. This generous space is a feature that really sets it apart from its more cramped competitors.
Design and Portability: Built for the Road
Megamaster clearly designed this grill with the traveler in mind. Weighing a mere 14.42 pounds, it’s light enough for one person to carry comfortably using either the main lid handle or the convenient side handles. The foldable steel legs are a core feature; they tuck away neatly underneath the body, creating a compact profile for transport. When extended, they provide a stable base on various surfaces, from a picnic table to the ground. The locking lid is another critical design choice, ensuring the greasy grate and internals stay contained during transit. We tested this by carrying it around in the trunk of a car, and there were no spills or rattles.
This focus on portability is what allows for unique adventures, as highlighted by one user’s story of strapping it to their kayak for a riverside picnic—a perfect real-world testament to its design. However, there is one design quirk worth noting. A reviewer pointed out that, unlike some other portable models, the Megamaster 820-0065C 1 Burner Portable Gas Grill cannot be stored or carried on its side like a suitcase. While a minor issue for most, it’s an important consideration for those with very specific storage constraints, like in a tightly packed RV compartment. Despite this, its overall portability is top-notch, making it an ideal companion for nearly any outdoor excursion. You can explore its full range of portability features here.
Ease of Use and Cleanup: The Convenience Factor
Beyond its cooking performance, the grill shines in its user-friendly operation. The simple, reliable ignition means no fumbling for lighters. Its compatibility with standard 1lb propane canisters, available at most grocery and hardware stores, adds to its convenience. For those planning longer cooking sessions, like a week-long camping trip, we echo the user recommendation to purchase an adapter hose to connect it to a larger 20lb propane tank, which is far more economical.
Cleanup, often the most dreaded part of grilling, is surprisingly manageable. The removable grease tray slides out from the bottom, catching the majority of drippings for easy disposal. The porcelain-enameled steel cooking grate is also relatively easy to clean with a good grill brush. One user shared a clever tip about using a grill mat to keep the grates pristine, which we found worked wonderfully. Another noted that while they initially wished the lid was hinged, its complete detachability actually makes cleaning the firebox and grate much easier, allowing for 360-degree access. These small but thoughtful design elements significantly enhance the overall experience, making you more likely to use the grill frequently. Its simple cleanup process is a major advantage, which you can verify in numerous positive user reviews.
What Other Users Are Saying
Synthesizing feedback from a wide range of users, a clear picture of the Megamaster 820-0065C 1 Burner Portable Gas Grill emerges. The overwhelming sentiment is positive, with many praising it as an exceptional value. One user, who has owned over a dozen grills and paid close to $1000 for some, called this little unit the “Best Grill, Ever!” highlighting its outstanding flame performance and high heat capabilities. Another summed up the pros perfectly: “it has a latch, handles on the side as well as the front for multiple carrying options, a drip tray, a thermometer, a second rack, and foldable legs,” all for a very reasonable price.
However, the feedback also provides valuable, honest critiques. A recurring minor complaint is that the main handle can become hot to the touch during use, so keeping an oven mitt handy is advisable. A more specific issue was raised by a user whose regulator solder points broke upon first use—a clear quality control issue, though it appears to be an isolated incident rather than a widespread design flaw. Another user found the drip pan “kinda lame” and a bit small for cooking a large batch of greasy burgers, suggesting it might require emptying during a long cookout. This balanced feedback reinforces our findings: it’s a fantastic, high-performing grill for its price, but not without a few minor quirks to be aware of.
How Does the Megamaster 820-0065C Compare to the Alternatives?
No product exists in a vacuum. To truly understand its value, we need to compare the Megamaster 820-0065C 1 Burner Portable Gas Grill to its key competitors. While the Megamaster offers a fantastic blend of space, power, and price, other models may appeal to users with different priorities.
1. Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 Portable Propane Grill
- GAS GRILL: Powered by liquid propane gas, this grill runs on a 1-pound propane gas tank, not included. It reaches cooking temperatures quickly, delivers...
- COOKING TECHNOLOGY: The Amplifire cooking system grills juicier food, eliminates guesswork and prevents flare-ups. Our emitter plate transfers heat from...
The Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 is built for toughness. Its rugged, cast-aluminum construction makes it feel like it can withstand serious abuse, making it a favorite among those who are particularly hard on their gear. The standout feature is Char-Broil’s TRU-Infrared cooking system, which is designed to heat food directly, promising more even cooking and fewer flare-ups. This comes at the cost of cooking space, offering only 200 square inches compared to the Megamaster’s 360. If your priority is extreme durability and a flare-up-resistant cooking surface for grilling delicate foods like fish, and you’re willing to sacrifice a significant amount of grilling real estate, the Grill2Go X200 is a formidable alternative.
2. Char-Broil 1-Burner Portable Propane Gas Grill
- GAS GRILL: Powered by liquid propane gas, this grill runs on a 1-pound propane gas tank, not included. It reaches cooking temperatures quickly, delivers...
- COOKING AREA: Grill up to 10 burgers, 4 chicken breasts or 14 brats on a 240-square-inch grate.
This model from Char-Broil is a more direct, budget-oriented competitor to the Megamaster. It’s typically positioned as a no-frills, highly functional portable grill. Its primary appeal is its simplicity and compact design, often featuring a smaller cooking area (around 190 square inches) and a lower BTU output. While it gets the job done for basic grilling tasks like hot dogs and a few burgers, it lacks the premium features of the Megamaster, such as a built-in thermometer and the sheer capacity to cook for a larger group. This grill is best suited for the solo camper or couple who needs the most basic, compact, and affordable gas grilling solution available.
3. Weber SPIRIT E-325 3-Burner Propane Grill
- 10-year limited warranty
- Boost Burners unleash 40% more power in the largest Sear Zone in its class, cranking up the heat for bold, flavorful searing.
Including the Weber SPIRIT E-325 here serves as an important point of contrast. This is not a portable grill; it is a full-fledged, three-burner backyard powerhouse. It represents the upgrade path for someone who realizes their primary need isn’t portability but rather maximum performance and capacity for home use. With features like porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates, a side burner, and a massive cooking area, it’s in a different league entirely. If you’ve been considering a portable grill for your small patio but have the space and budget for a stationary unit, the Weber Spirit series offers a significant leap in performance, versatility, and cooking consistency that a portable model simply cannot match.
Our Final Verdict on the Megamaster 820-0065C 1 Burner Portable Gas Grill
After extensive testing and analysis, we can confidently say that the Megamaster 820-0065C 1 Burner Portable Gas Grill is a standout product in the crowded portable grill market. It strikes an almost perfect balance between cooking capacity, heating power, genuine portability, and outstanding value. Its massive 360-square-inch cooking surface defies its compact, travel-friendly design, while the 11,000 BTU burner provides the high heat necessary for a legitimate grilling experience far from home. The thoughtful features—from the simple assembly and locking lid to the integrated thermometer and easy-to-clean grease tray—demonstrate a clear understanding of what users truly need in a portable unit.
While it has minor drawbacks, such as not being able to store on its side and a handle that can get hot, these are easily outweighed by its impressive performance and affordability. We wholeheartedly recommend it for campers, tailgaters, RV owners, and anyone with a small balcony who refuses to compromise on the joy of grilling. If you’re looking for a reliable, powerful, and easy-to-use grill that’s ready for any adventure, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better option for the price. Ready to elevate your outdoor cooking game? Check the latest price and grab your Megamaster 820-0065C today.
Last update on 2025-11-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API