For years, my partner and I lived in a condo with a balcony that could charitably be described as “cozy.” We dreamed of weekend cookouts, the sizzle of steaks, and the smoky aroma of grilled vegetables, but our reality was a tiny outdoor space that mocked our collection of oversized grilling accessories. The thought of a massive, six-burner behemoth was laughable; it would have consumed our entire seating area. This is a familiar struggle for city dwellers, apartment residents, and anyone with a modest backyard: the desire for authentic, high-performance grilling clashing with the constraints of limited square footage. Forgoing grilling isn’t an option for enthusiasts like us, but settling for a flimsy, underpowered portable unit often leads to frustration, unevenly cooked food, and a feeling of compromise. The challenge is finding a grill that doesn’t just fit the space but truly performs within it.
- 【401 SQ IN COOKING AREA】With 401 square inches of cooking space, this propane grill accommodates 8 to 10 hamburgers and is ideal for grilling a variety...
- 【PORCELAIN-COATED CAST IRON GRILL GRATES】Crafted with porcelain-coated cast iron, the BBQ gas grill's cooking area offers the benefits of cast iron...
What to Consider Before Buying a Compact Propane Grill
A compact propane grill is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for unlocking the joy of outdoor cooking in spaces where it once seemed impossible. It offers the convenience of instant, controllable heat without the mess of charcoal or the limitations of an electric plug. The primary benefit is achieving powerful, consistent grilling results—from a perfect sear on a ribeye to the gentle cooking of fish—on a footprint that respects your patio, balcony, or small backyard. The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the exact dilemma we did: couples, small families, or individuals who want a serious grill for everyday meals and small gatherings of 2-4 people. However, it might not be suitable for those who regularly host large parties or need to cook multiple types of food for a crowd simultaneously. For those users, a larger 4- or 6-burner model, or even a dedicated smoker for big cuts of meat, would be a more practical investment.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: This is paramount. Measure your available space meticulously, but don’t just consider the grill’s main body. Look at the total width with side tables extended, as this is your functional workspace. Features like the foldable side tables on the Nexgrill Deluxe 2-Burner Gas Grill are a game-changer for small areas, allowing you to have ample prep space when you need it and a compact storage profile when you don’t.
- Capacity/Performance: Don’t let a smaller size fool you into accepting weak performance. The key metric is British Thermal Units (BTUs) relative to the primary cooking area. A high BTU output, like the 28,000 BTUs of this Nexgrill model, ensures the grill heats up quickly and can maintain high temperatures for searing, even on breezy days. For a 2-burner grill, a cooking area of around 400 square inches is an excellent sweet spot, providing enough room for about 8-10 burgers without being excessive.
- Materials & Durability: Look for a mix of quality materials. Porcelain-coated cast iron grates are the gold standard for heat retention and creating beautiful sear marks, while also being rust-resistant. A stainless steel lid, handle, and control panel not only look premium but resist corrosion and are easy to clean. The frame should be sturdy, and the cabinet design is a huge plus for neatly hiding the propane tank and storing tools.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Your grill should be a pleasure, not a chore. Features like a reliable electronic ignition system are non-negotiable for quick, safe startups. A removable grease tray or catch pan is essential for simplified cleanup. Also, consider mobility; smooth-rolling casters, preferably with locks, make it easy to move the grill for cooking or storage.
While the Nexgrill Deluxe 2-Burner Gas Grill is an excellent choice for this category, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models designed for smaller living, 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...
First Impressions: Unboxing and Assembling the Nexgrill 720-0864RA
The Nexgrill Deluxe 2-Burner Gas Grill arrived in a single, hefty box weighing just over 70 pounds—definitely a two-person lift to get it to the patio. Upon opening it, we were met with well-organized components, each piece protected by cardboard or foam. The assembly instructions are purely pictorial, which can be a double-edged sword. However, we found them clear and logical. As one user noted, the design is refreshingly simple: all the screws go into pre-threaded holes, eliminating the frustrating dance of holding a nut, washer, and bolt while trying to tighten. With a power screwdriver, the entire process from unboxing to a fully assembled grill took us just under an hour.
Our initial inspection of the parts was mostly positive. The porcelain-coated cast iron grates felt substantial, the stainless steel control panel had a premium sheen, and the cabinet doors aligned properly. However, we’ve seen consistent feedback from other users about shipping damage, ranging from minor dents to significantly bent frame pieces. Our advice is to unpack and inspect every single component *before* you begin assembly. While our unit was in good shape, it’s a known risk with this model that you should be aware of. Once built, the grill feels sturdy and looks fantastic, like a shrunken-down version of a much more expensive, professional-grade grill. The foldable side tables are a standout feature, clicking securely into place and offering a surprising amount of prep real estate. You can explore its full feature set and user reviews to see if it fits your needs.
Key Benefits
- Powerful 28,000 BTU output provides rapid preheating and excellent searing capability.
- Porcelain-coated cast iron grates deliver superior heat retention and distribution.
- Smart, space-saving design with two foldable side prep tables.
- Generous 401 sq. in. cooking area is ample for a couple or small family.
Potential Drawbacks
- Inconsistent quality control with reports of shipping damage and bent parts.
- Customer service experiences for replacement parts can be slow and frustrating for some users.
In-Depth Performance Analysis: Putting the Nexgrill Deluxe 2-Burner to the Test
A grill can look great and have a fantastic feature list, but the only thing that truly matters is how it cooks. We spent several weeks putting the Nexgrill Deluxe 2-Burner Gas Grill through its paces, cooking everything from thick-cut steaks and delicate salmon fillets to classic burgers and corn on the cob. This is where the grill moves beyond its spec sheet and reveals its true character—one of surprising power and precision, albeit with some quirks in its foundation.
Assembly and Build Quality: A Tale of Two Experiences
As mentioned, our assembly process was straightforward. The pre-threaded holes are a brilliant touch that simplifies construction immensely. Anyone who has fumbled with tiny nuts and washers in tight spaces will appreciate this design choice. The picture-based manual required careful attention, but it was logical from start to finish. However, the build quality is where a significant caveat comes into play, and it’s a theme we saw echoed repeatedly in user feedback. While the core components like the burners and grates are solid, some of the structural elements, like the sheet metal for the cabinet, can feel a bit thin. We noticed a very slight warp in one of the side panels, which didn’t affect performance but was a minor cosmetic flaw. This aligns with reports from other users who have received units with more significant dents, bent frames, or misaligned screw holes from the factory. One user even reported that the screws holding the lid handle wouldn’t tighten, a clear manufacturing defect. Our unit’s casters rolled smoothly, but we also noted a user who had a faulty one that wouldn’t lock properly. The takeaway here is that there seems to be a lottery with shipping and factory quality control. If you receive a “good” unit, the build is more than adequate for the price. If not, you may be in for a frustrating experience seeking replacement parts.
Heating Power and Temperature Control: The Star of the Show
This is where the Nexgrill Deluxe 2-Burner Gas Grill truly punches above its weight class. The dual stainless steel burners ignite instantly with the push-button electronic ignition and combine for a potent 28,000 BTUs of power. We put it to the test, and the results were genuinely impressive. With both burners on high and the lid closed, the grill roared to life, reaching 500°F in just under 5 minutes and climbing to nearly 600°F within 7 minutes. This rapid preheat time is a huge convenience for weeknight grilling and confirms the experience of users who praise its fast heating. This level of heat is critical for achieving a deep, flavorful crust on steaks and burgers. We threw on two 1.5-inch thick ribeyes and were rewarded with beautiful, dark sear marks from the heavy-duty porcelain-coated cast iron grates. The “Even Heat Cooking System,” which consists of angled steel plates (or “flame tamers”) over the burners, did an excellent job of distributing the heat and minimizing flare-ups from dripping fat. We found the heat to be remarkably consistent across the entire cooking surface, with no major hot or cold spots—a common failing in budget-friendly grills. The control knobs offer a good range of adjustment, allowing us to easily set up a two-zone cooking environment by running one burner on high and the other on low, perfect for cooking chicken thighs without burning the skin. For those who prioritize raw cooking power, this grill’s powerful heating system is its single greatest asset.
Design, Features, and Usability: Smart Choices for Small Spaces
Living with the Nexgrill Deluxe 2-Burner Gas Grill day-to-day reveals a series of thoughtful design choices. The 401 square inch primary cooking area is the perfect size for its intended audience. We comfortably fit eight large burger patties, and could have easily grilled a full meal for four people—chicken breasts on one side, a basket of vegetables on the other—without feeling cramped. The warming rack adds valuable extra space for toasting buns or keeping cooked food ready to serve. The most celebrated feature, however, has to be the foldable side tables. In their upright position, they provide a stable and essential platform for plates, spices, and tools. When the grilling is done, they fold down flush with the grill’s body, dramatically shrinking its footprint for storage. This is a non-negotiable feature for anyone with a tight patio space. Other conveniences add to the positive experience. The built-in thermometer in the lid, while not perfectly precise (as is common with most lid thermometers), gives a reliable general reading of the internal temperature. The two accessory hooks are simple but useful for keeping tongs and a spatula at the ready. The enclosed cabinet is another huge plus, concealing the propane tank for a much cleaner look and offering a bit of storage for a grill brush or wood chips. Lastly, the ability to convert the grill to natural gas (conversion kit sold separately) is a fantastic option for homeowners who have an outdoor gas line, offering long-term convenience and cost savings. All these features combined make the grill exceptionally user-friendly and a joy to operate, which you can confirm by checking the latest price and availability.
What Other Users Are Saying
After our own extensive testing, we dug into the broader consensus from other owners to ensure our experience was typical. The feedback paints a very clear picture. On the positive side, there is widespread praise for the grill’s core performance. One user summed it up perfectly, stating, “It heats up real fast to like 600 degrees in about 5-7 minutes. Heat distribution is great.” This sentiment is the most common thread among happy customers, who love the cooking power and results in such a compact form factor.
However, a recurring theme of frustration emerges around quality control and post-purchase support. Numerous buyers report issues straight out of the box, with one noting, “The quality of some parts was not good as they were bended,” and another receiving a unit with “three dents in it.” These issues are often compounded by what is described as a slow and unhelpful customer service experience. One user waited over a week for a replacement for a leaky propane hose, while another was still waiting on parts for a damaged grill they hadn’t even been able to use yet. This feedback is critical: while the grill’s design and performance are excellent, prospective buyers must be prepared for the possibility of receiving a damaged unit and potentially facing a difficult process to resolve it.
How Does the Nexgrill Deluxe 2-Burner Gas Grill Compare to the Competition?
The Nexgrill Deluxe 2-Burner Gas Grill occupies a specific niche, but it’s important to understand the alternatives. Depending on your primary needs—be it ultimate portability, specialized cooking, or capacity for a crowd—other options might be a better fit.
1. Char-Broil 1-Burner 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 AREA: Grill up to 10 burgers, 4 chicken breasts or 14 brats on a 240-square-inch grate.
The Char-Broil portable grill is built for a completely different purpose. It’s the go-to choice for tailgating, camping, or picnics at the park. Its single burner and much smaller cooking surface are designed for maximum portability, running off small 1lb propane canisters. While it can grill a few burgers or hot dogs effectively, it lacks the power, cooking area, and features of the Nexgrill. If your primary need is a grill that travels with you, the Char-Broil is an excellent choice. If you want a stationary, powerful grilling station for your home patio, the Nexgrill Deluxe 2-Burner Gas Grill is overwhelmingly the superior option.
2. Concord Single Banjo Wok Burner 270,000 BTU
- Concord Professional 16" Stronghold burners are capable to putting out up to 270,000 BTU and are built like tanks. This is part of our professional series,...
- This is our DROP IN WOK Edition, this means that there is a custom built wok ring that allows you to drop your 11" or wider wok into the burner. Drop in...
This Concord unit isn’t a grill; it’s a specialized high-power burner. With a staggering 270,000 BTU output, it’s designed for tasks that require immense, focused heat, like wok stir-frying, homebrewing large pots of beer, or powering a large turkey fryer. It excels at these specific jobs but has none of the features of a traditional grill—no lid, no grates for direct grilling, and no temperature control for low-and-slow cooking. Someone might choose this *in addition* to a grill like the Nexgrill to complete an outdoor kitchen, but it is in no way a substitute for it. For all-around grilling, the Nexgrill is the only choice between the two.
3. Cuisinart 4-Burner 44,000 BTU Gas Grill
- POWERFUL BURNERS: Four 11,000 BTU burners deliver a total of 44,000 BTUs of heat for precise, even cooking.
- SPACIOUS COOKING: 443 square inches of primary cooking space with an additional 167 square-inch warming rack for extra versatility.
The Cuisinart 4-Burner represents the next step up in size and capacity. With double the burners, significantly more cooking space, and a higher total BTU output, it’s geared towards those who have more patio space and frequently cook for larger groups of 6-8 people. It’s a great choice for suburban backyards and family gatherings. However, its larger footprint makes it unsuitable for the small balconies and patios where the Nexgrill shines. The Nexgrill Deluxe 2-Burner Gas Grill offers a similar quality of cooking and premium feel but in a package intelligently designed for space-constrained environments. For couples or small families, the Cuisinart is simply overkill.
Final Verdict: Is the Nexgrill Deluxe 2-Burner Gas Grill Right for You?
After weeks of grilling, our conclusion on the Nexgrill Deluxe 2-Burner Gas Grill is clear: it’s a high-performance engine in a compact, economy-sized frame. When it comes to the most important function—cooking food—it is absolutely fantastic. The powerful burners, rapid pre-heating, and excellent heat-retaining cast iron grates deliver results that rival grills costing twice as much. The thoughtful, space-saving design with foldable tables and an enclosed cabinet makes it an ideal solution for anyone with a small patio or balcony who refuses to compromise on grilling power.
The significant, unavoidable asterisk is the gamble on quality control. The consistent reports of shipping damage and manufacturing flaws, coupled with frustrating customer service experiences, mean that you should purchase with your eyes open. We recommend buying from a retailer with a straightforward return policy. If you receive an undamaged unit, you have secured one of the best values in the compact grill market. For those willing to navigate that potential hurdle, the reward is a phenomenal small-space grilling machine. If you’re ready to transform your patio into a serious grilling station, the Nexgrill Deluxe 2-Burner Gas Grill is a compelling option. You can see the current price and find out more about it here.
Last update on 2025-11-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API