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Specialty Appliances

9 Best Electric Grills for Apartments and Balconies (2026)

I compared 9 best electric grills for apartments from George Foreman, Chefman, Artestia and more, weighing footprint, heat control, and how each one handles grease, to see which suits balcony and countertop cooking. The Artestia 1800W leads on smoke flavor, and the Chefman is the budget pick going into November 2026.

Published Nov 3, 2026 5 min read

Balcony grilling sounds simple until the building rules land: no charcoal, no propane, no open flame. That pushes most apartment cooks toward an electric grill, and the listings get confusing fast. One page leads with wattage, another with square inches, a third puts the word smokeless in the title and never explains how it gets there. The spec that decides whether dinner fits in one batch is the cooking surface, and the feature that decides whether your kitchen smells like a diner is where the grease goes. Both tend to sit halfway down the page, under a photo of someone flipping a burger.

I went through the best electric grills for apartments with those two questions first, then weighed heat control, lid design, and how much assembly stands between the box and the first burger. Materials and stated capacities were compared across the models, care instructions were read line by line, and ratings were cross-referenced where the listings disclosed them, with every entry scored on the BHK Score scale used across this site. None of that involved cooking on each unit; this is a research comparison built on listings, specs, and manufacturer documentation rather than a week of test dinners. It is also why the notes below lean on stated capacity and construction instead of pictures of grill marks.

My overall pick for best electric grills for apartments is the Artestia 1800W Smokeless Electric Grill. The integrated smoker box is what separates it from every flat plate in the group: load a handful of wood chips, close the domed lid, and the grill builds a smoke profile that a bare electric grate cannot produce. A lid thermometer lets you check progress without dumping the heat, and the removable drip tray deals with the grease that usually turns a countertop grill into a scrubbing job. My top picks are just below.

Our Top Picks

A Note on Ratings. Manufacturer specs aren't always independently verified, so results can vary with how a product is used and cared for. Every pick is compared on its stated specs, materials, and verified owner feedback before it makes this list. Still, check the manual and the current listing before you buy, especially for temperature limits, cooktop compatibility, and care instructions.

Full Reviews

1 Best Overall

Artestia 1800W Smokeless Electric Grill

Artestia
9.9 BHK Score
Excellent

This electric grill offers 1800W power and a built-in stainless steel smoker box for wood-smoked flavor without charcoal.

Key Facts

Dimensions
12 x 26 x 32 Inches
Power
1800W
Material
Stainless Steel Smoker Box

Pros

  • +Heavy-duty 1800W heating for fast, even cooking
  • +Integrated smoker box adds authentic wood-smoked aroma
  • +Nonstick grilling plate reduces food residue buildup
  • +Dishwasher-safe drip tray simplifies cleanup

Cons

  • −Large height of 32 inches may limit storage options
  • −Width of 26 inches requires significant countertop space
  • −No color variations beyond black limit aesthetic choices

Detailed Review

This Artestia grill features a built-in stainless steel smoker box that allows wood chips like hickory or mesquite to infuse real smoke flavor without charcoal. The 1800-watt heating element delivers rapid heat-up and consistent temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, which supports effective searing.

The domed lid with a built-in thermometer helps retain heat and moisture, letting cooks monitor without lifting the lid. Cleanup is streamlined by a removable drip tray that is dishwasher-safe, collecting grease efficiently beneath the grill plate.

I'd consider this grill best suited for users with enough patio or balcony space due to its sizable width and height. Its flame-free design fits well where open flames are restricted, but the footprint requires planning in smaller kitchens.

2 Best for Outdoor Use

Outvita Electric Grill with 1600W Heating

Outvita
9.8 BHK Score
Excellent

The Outvita Electric Grill offers 1600W power and a large cooking surface fitting up to 10 burgers, designed for indoor and outdoor use.

Key Facts

Power
1600W
Size
16.5 x 20 x 12 Inches
Material
Chrome-plated grates and stainless steel heating tubes

Pros

  • +High wattage for faster cooking times
  • +Spacious grilling area suitable for family meals
  • +Removable stand for portability and storage
  • +Chrome-plated grates resist rust outdoors

Cons

  • −Countertop footprint may be large for small kitchens
  • −Limited color options with only black available
  • −No dishwasher-safe parts mentioned for cleanup

Detailed Review

This Outvita Electric Grill is distinguished by its 1600W heating system, which promotes rapid and even cooking. The grill’s large surface area fitting up to 10 burgers suits family meals or small gatherings, balancing capacity with its tabletop size of 16.5 by 20 by 12 inches. It features an interlocking hood and bowl design to enhance heat circulation.

I see this grill working best for cooks who need a portable option that can handle outdoor settings safely, thanks to the waterproof plug and sturdy removable stand. The cool-touch handle adds practical safety during use. Worth knowing before you buy is the relatively large countertop footprint, which might challenge tighter kitchen setups.

This grill’s black finish is standard, so it lacks color variety. For my money, it suits those prioritizing power and capacity in a portable electric grill for indoor or outdoor cooking.

3 Best for Family Meals

Amelkit Indoor Electric Grill with 14-Inch Cooking

Amelkit
9.8 BHK Score
Excellent

This Amelkit electric grill offers a 14-inch cooking area and 1500W power for even heating and adjustable temperatures up to 450°F.

Key Facts

Size
14 inches cooking surface
Power
1500W
Rating
Adjustable temperature up to 450°F
Care
Dishwasher-safe grill plate and drip tray

Pros

  • +Large 14-inch cooking surface accommodates family-sized meals
  • +Adjustable temperature with five settings for cooking control
  • +Removable parts simplify cleaning and maintenance

Cons

  • −Relatively bulky footprint at 13.8 by 16.6 inches on counter
  • −Temperature controller must be kept away from water
  • −Limited color options with only black available

Detailed Review

The Amelkit indoor grill features a 14-inch cooking surface that can handle multiple portions simultaneously, making it suitable for family or group meals. It operates at 1500 watts, which ensures rapid and even heating across the entire grill area without hot or cold spots. This power level supports temperatures up to 450°F, allowing for effective searing and grilling.

I see this grill working best for those who want a convenient indoor option with temperature control and a decent cooking area. The removable nonstick plate and drip tray are practical for cleanup, and the plate is dishwasher-safe, although the temperature controller must be kept dry to avoid damage. Worth knowing before you buy, the unit's footprint is somewhat large for smaller kitchen counters.

For my money, this grill suits households needing a larger surface for multiple servings and who value straightforward cleanup without specialized care.

4 Best for Large Groups

George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Grill with 200 Sq

George Foreman
9.8 BHK Score
Excellent

Electric grill with 200 square inches cooking surface and five heat settings for versatile grilling.

Key Facts

Capacity
200 square inches
Dimensions
4.1 x 22.25 x 12 inches
Weight
14.33 pounds

Pros

  • +Large grilling surface suitable for groups
  • +Adjustable temperature control for cooking variety
  • +Durable nonstick surface for easy cleaning
  • +Fat drip tray promotes leaner grilling

Cons

  • −Bulky footprint may challenge small counters
  • −Weight over 14 pounds limits portability
  • −Limited to electric power, no charcoal option

Detailed Review

This George Foreman grill offers a 200 square inch grilling surface that can handle over a dozen servings, making it practical for larger groups or gatherings. The grill operates fully on electricity, which is convenient for indoor use or apartments where charcoal or propane is restricted. It includes five adjustable heat settings to better control cooking temperatures across different foods.

I see this working best for cooks who want a sizable cooking area without dealing with open flames but should note the grill is fairly heavy at over 14 pounds and has a wide footprint that might not suit small kitchen counters. The nonstick coating helps with cleanup but requires care to maintain.

Overall, I rate this a reasonable pick for those needing an electric grill with ample surface area and temperature control for indoor or outdoor use.

5 Best for Small Families

Artestia 1800W Compact Electric Grill

Artestia
9.7 BHK Score
Excellent

The Artestia electric grill features a 1800W heating element and a removable nonstick plate for easy cleaning.

Key Facts

Power
1800W
Dimensions
12 x 26 x 32 inches
Weight
14.55 Pounds

Pros

  • +Powerful 1800W element ensures consistent heat distribution
  • +Nonstick surface reduces food sticking and cleanup time
  • +Automatic temperature protection prevents overheating
  • +Compact footprint suits limited counter or outdoor space

Cons

  • −Limited cooking surface suitable only for 1-3 people
  • −Larger grills needed for bigger family meal preparation
  • −Requires preheating for 10–15 minutes before use

Detailed Review

This grill has a 1800W heating element that delivers rapid and even heat, which is essential for consistent grilling results. Its removable nonstick plate makes cleaning straightforward, reducing post-cooking effort. The cooking surface is designed for small families or individuals, which means it won’t accommodate larger meal preparation needs.

Its lightweight frame enhances portability, making it practical for balconies, small patios, or RVs. The grill includes an automatic temperature protection system that temporarily stops heating if it overheats, which helps prevent damage but requires careful preheating of 10 to 15 minutes. I see this working best for users who need a compact, easy-to-move grill for modest grilling tasks rather than large gatherings.

For my money, this suits households of one to three people who prioritize portability and easy cleanup over large cooking capacity.

6 Best for Families

Chefman Smokeless Indoor Electric Grill

Chefman
9.5 BHK Score
Very good

Electric indoor grill with a 15 x 9-inch nonstick grilling surface and adjustable temperature control.

Key Facts

Size
11 x 21 x 3.3 inches
Power
1500W
Material
Ceramic nonstick grill plate
Care
Dishwasher-safe base and drip tray

Pros

  • +Large grilling surface for multiple foods at once
  • +Nonstick ceramic grill plate for easier food release
  • +Dishwasher-safe parts reduce cleanup effort
  • +Adjustable temperature control for versatile cooking

Cons

  • −Countertop footprint of 11 x 21 inches may be bulky
  • −Limited color option available in black only
  • −No explicit oven-safe temperature rating provided

Detailed Review

The Chefman Smokeless Indoor Electric Grill offers a 15 by 9-inch grilling surface that provides ample space to cook several items simultaneously. It uses a water-filled drip tray to minimize smoke, addressing a common challenge with indoor grilling. The ceramic nonstick pyramid-style grill plate channels grease away from food, which supports easier cleanup and less mess. I see this grill working best in kitchens where extra cooking space is needed but counter space is somewhat limited due to its footprint of 11 by 21 inches. Worth knowing before you buy is that this model comes only in black and does not specify an oven-safe temperature. Overall, I rate this a reasonable pick for those wanting a large, smokeless indoor grill that is easy to clean.

9.5 BHK Score
Very good

Techwood Electric Grill offers 1600W power and a 240-square-inch porcelain-coated cast iron grilling area.

Key Facts

Power
1600W
Size
8 x 16 x 18 Inches
Material
Porcelain-coated cast iron grates

Pros

  • +High-capacity cooking rack for over 15 servings
  • +Removable stand enhances portability
  • +Adjustable temperature control for cooking precision
  • +Rust-resistant porcelain-coated cast iron grates

Cons

  • −Bulky size may limit small countertop space
  • −No dishwasher-safe parts specified for easy cleanup
  • −Limited color option restricted to black

Detailed Review

The Techwood Electric Grill features a 240-square-inch cooking surface with porcelain-coated cast iron grates, which offer rust resistance and easier cleaning compared to bare metal. Its 1600W power supports rapid heating and the grill provides five adjustable heat settings to tailor cooking temperatures for different foods.

I see this grill fitting well in small outdoor spaces like balconies or patios, given its compact 8 x 16 x 18 inch dimensions and removable stand for portability. Worth knowing before you buy is the relatively large footprint may challenge tighter kitchen counters, and the product data does not specify dishwasher-safe parts, so hand cleaning is likely needed.

I'd consider this a reasonable pick for gatherings needing a sizeable cooking area without propane or charcoal, especially where electric grilling is preferred. Its black finish limits aesthetic choices but keeps the design straightforward.

8 Best for Versatile Outdoor Cooking

Charbroil Bistro Pro 3-in-1 Grill with 240 Sq

Charbroil
9.5 BHK Score
Very good

Charbroil Bistro Pro is a 3-in-1 electric, griddle, and charcoal grill offering 240 sq in of cooking space for up to 12 burgers.

Key Facts

Cooking Space
240 sq in
Maximum Temperature
650 degrees
Dimensions
23 x 32.8 x 39.6 inches
Weight
59 pounds

Pros

  • +Multi-function design enables grilling, griddling, and charcoal use
  • +Electric heating reaches high temps without open flames
  • +Warming rack adds convenience for meal timing
  • +Supports cooking for up to 12 people with sizable surface

Cons

  • −Relatively heavy at 59 pounds for a compact grill
  • −Large footprint of 23 x 32.8 x 39.6 inches limits small counters
  • −Limited color option available only in black

Detailed Review

The Charbroil Bistro Pro stands out with its 3-in-1 design combining electric grilling, griddling, and charcoal cooking. This versatility allows switching cooking modes with the included insert and charcoal system, which heats coals electrically without extra setup. The grill offers 240 square inches of primary cooking space, enough for about 12 burgers, making it suitable for small gatherings or family meals on the patio. Its ability to reach 650 degrees provides searing heat similar to gas grills but without open flames. I see this grill working best for those wanting charcoal flavor with electric convenience in an apartment or small outdoor setting. Worth knowing before purchase is the sizable footprint and weight, which may challenge very tight spaces or frequent transport needs.

9 Best for Indoor Outdoor Use

George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill

George Foreman
9.4 BHK Score
Very good

Electric grill with 15-serving capacity, five heat settings, and a fat-removing slope for grease drainage.

Key Facts

Capacity
15 Serving
Dimensions
19.69 x 11.02 x 20.47 inches
Weight
8.68 pounds
Material
George Tough Nonstick Coating

Pros

  • +Durable nonstick coating reduces need for butter or oil
  • +Removable stand enables quick transition between indoor and outdoor use
  • +Five heat settings allow temperature customization for different foods
  • +Fat-removing slope aids in draining grease away from food

Cons

  • −Relatively large footprint may limit space on small countertops
  • −Hand-wash recommended to preserve nonstick coating durability

Detailed Review

This George Foreman model features a 15-serving capacity which suits medium to larger households looking to grill multiple items at once. The removable stand lets you easily move the grill from outdoors to a countertop indoors, broadening its use but also requiring some storage space when detached. I see this working best for those who want electric grilling flexibility without charcoal or propane.

The grill includes five adjustable heat settings, which offer control over cooking temperature for different foods from steaks to vegetables. The signature fat-removing slope is designed to drain grease into the drip tray, though it requires the grill to be level for proper function. Worth knowing before you buy, this grill has a sizable footprint that may not fit smaller kitchens comfortably.

I'd consider this for cooks who value a durable nonstick surface and multi-setting heat control but have enough counter space. The hand-wash only care requirement is typical but something to keep in mind for maintenance.

FAQs

Can you use an electric grill on an apartment balcony?

A flame-free electric grill is often permitted where charcoal and propane are not, but the building decides, not the product page. Read the lease and the management’s balcony rules before buying, then follow the manufacturer’s manual for clearance and placement. Cord reach often matters more than plate size.

How much counter space does an electric grill need?

Tabletop electric grills generally need a footprint close to a sheet pan, plus room for the lid and cord. Measure counter depth and the gap under your upper cabinets first, since a domed lid adds real height. Small kitchens hit the same limit with air fryers for small spaces.

Is a large cooking surface worth it for one or two people?

A large grate only pays off if you cook for a group or want mains and sides at once. For one or two, a compact plate heats faster and takes less storage. Pay more attention to heat control and the drip tray than to surface area.

Do indoor electric grills really stay smokeless?

Smoke drops sharply when grease lands in a water-filled drip tray instead of on the heating element, which is the design Chefman and several others use. A closed lid also helps contain splatter. Ventilation still matters, and the manual’s guidance on preheating and grease levels comes first.

Final Thoughts

What separates a good apartment electric grill from a frustrating one comes down to four things: how much counter or balcony space it eats, whether the heat control holds a steady setting, where the grease ends up, and whether a lid is part of the design. Wattage matters, but mainly for how quickly the plate comes up to temperature, not for how well dinner turns out.

For most apartments, the Artestia 1800W Smokeless Electric Grill is the one I would choose. It suits cooks who want a proper sear and a little wood smoke without charcoal: the smoker box takes chips, the domed lid traps heat and carries a thermometer so you are not lifting it every few minutes, and the plate runs hot enough to mark a steak. The tabletop frame moves from balcony to counter to RV without a stand to bolt together, which is the part people underestimate until the first move.

On a tighter budget, the Chefman Smokeless Indoor Electric Grill covers the indoor case well. Its water-filled drip tray is the practical answer to smoke in a small kitchen, and the wide grilling plate leaves room for a family dinner instead of two batches. The limit is the flat, low-profile plate: no domed lid means melted cheese is out and heat retention is modest, so it suits everyday burgers and vegetables more than slow cooking. If you want charcoal flavor and a griddle mode as well, the Charbroil Bistro Pro covers all three, though it costs substantially more and claims more room. Pick for the space you actually have and the way you actually cook, and the wattage-versus-size question stops being confusing.

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Evan Carmichael
Written by Evan Carmichael Founder & Lead Appliance Analyst

Evan Carmichael is the founder and lead appliance analyst at Best Home Kitchen. He covers countertop appliances, coffee and espresso machines, cookware, and kitchen knives, comparing each product's specs, materials, and wattage against verified owner feedback so home cooks can choose reliable kitchen gear with confidence.

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Contents
  1. Our Top Picks
  2. Full Reviews
  3. FAQs
  4. Final Thoughts