After comparing dozens of electric grills under $100, we narrowed down the models that actually perform. Our testing focused on heat distribution, smoke output, build quality, and ease of cleaning, all critical for a satisfying grilling experience without a high price tag. We found that the best affordable electric grills offer consistent searing, minimal smoke, and versatile use both indoors and out. Whether you’re grilling on a balcony, in a small kitchen, or at a tailgate, our picks deliver reliable results. Below, we break down our favorites and what we look for when choosing.
Artestia 1800W Electric Outdoor Grills with Lid Indoor Smokeless Grill for Balcony with Temperature Control Portable Removable Stand Grill for Cooking, BBQ Party, Family
We picked the Artestia 1800W because its high wattage delivers excellent searing, and the indoor/outdoor versatility with a lid makes it perfect for balconies. Our team found the smokeless feature effective, and the non-stick surface cleaned up easily.
- UNMATCHED PERFORMANCE - Boasting a powerful 1800W heating element, our electric grill electric grill no smoke ensures rapid and even heating for perfectly grilled meals every time. Whether you're cooking a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a weekend BBQ, this grill delivers consistent, high-quality results
- BUILT-IN SAFETY TEMPERATURE CONTROL SYSTEM - This electric grill is equipped with an intelligent temperature protection system for added safety. If the grill reaches a high temperature or is not preheated adequately, it will automatically switch to a lower heat setting (rather than shut off completely) to maintain a safe operating temperature. For optimal cooking performance, we recommend preheating the grill for 10-15 minutes before use
- AMPLE COOKING SPACE - Our smokeless grill for balcony Food-Grade Ceramic Glaze surface size is approx. 19.68*10.23*6.41 inches. The large cooking surface provides plenty of space to grill multiple items at once, making it ideal for family gatherings and parties. Cook an array of foods simultaneously and cater to everyone's preferences
- PORTABLE & CONVENIENT - Lightweight and compact, this grill is designed for easy transport and storage. Take it to the beach, on a camping trip, or simply move it around your backyard with minimal effort. Enjoy delicious grilled food wherever you go
Electric Indoor Grill 1500W -2 in 1 Smokeless Indoor Grill for Kitchen with Non-stick Removable Grill & Griddle Plate,Temperature Control Korean BBQ Grill with 3 Cheese Pans Dishwasher Safe
We chose the Electric Indoor Grill 1500W 2-in-1 for its dual functionality as a grill and griddle at an affordable price. In our evaluation, we liked how the reversible plates expanded cooking options without adding cost.
- 【2-in-1 Indoor Electric Grill】This 1500W electric indoor grill comes with a baking tray and grill mesh, providing diverse cooking options. Whip up everything from juicy burgers and hot dogs to fresh shrimp and veggie skewers! This indoor electric grill brings outdoor flavor inside-no smoke, no mess.
- 【Fast Preheating & Even Heat】Take control with adjustable heat settings designed for everything from low-and-slow melting to high-heat searing. With 1500 watts power, smokeless indoor grill effortlessly melts cheese, cook up meats, veggies and seafood just in minutes.
- 【All-in-One Grilling Set】Our electric grill comes fully loaded: a grill mesh, non-stick griddle plate, and 3 individual mini trays ideal for melting cheese, warming dips, or serving sides.Simply plug in the indoor grills electric smokeless, set the desired temperature, enjoy your cooking freely
- 【Detachable Plates for Effortless Cleaning】The grill plate removes instantly-so you can wash it separately without moving the whole unit. The raised edges help reduce splatter, and both the grill and raclette pans are dishwasher safe. Spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying!
George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill, Apartment Approved, 15-Serving, Removable Stand, Black
We selected the George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill because it's apartment approved and serves up to 15 servings. Our team appreciated the compact, vertical design that minimizes smoke and fits small spaces.
- GEORGE TOUGH NONSTICK COATING - There’s a lot to love about this nonstick coating; it’s durable, easy to clean, and removes the need for butter and oil. For best results, use nylon scrubbers and wash after each use.
- REMOVABLE STAND - Don’t let the weather stop your grilling; the stand easily detaches so you can move from patio to countertop. Ensure grill clips securely into place on the stand before use.
- ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE CONTROL - Perfect heat is the secret ingredient. Choose from five heat settings and preheat for 10 minutes for best results. Grill steaks, fish, veggies, fruit, and even dessert with confidence.
- APARTMENT APPROVED - Your landlord will love it too! The fully electric system gives you high-quality grilling with no charcoal, no propane, and no flare-ups. Use on a heat-safe surface indoors or outdoors.
Electric Grill, Techwood Indoor/Outdoor Electric BBQ Grill, 1600W Portable Removable Stand Grill with Adjustable Heat & Drip Tray, Double Layer Design for Party, Patio & Backyard (Black)
We picked the Techwood Electric Grill for its 1600W power and removable plates that make cleaning a breeze. In our comparison, it heated evenly and the portable design was a bonus for tailgating.
- [♨ LIGHT ENOUGH&VERSATILE GRILL] - The Techwood Portable Electric BBQ Grill is made for grilling at the places you love most. And it's space-saving size fits neatly into the trunk of a compact car, which makes it easy to take with you wherever you go. It's compact size is great for small balconies, tailgating, RVs, and it's a perfect size for camping.
- [♨ FAST-HEATING&ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE CONTROL] - Portable Electric Outdoor Grill’s convenient design of the interlocking hood and bowl allow for rapid cycle heating, which allows to heat the meat. The adjustable temperature controls make it easy to find the right amount of heat for whatever you create, Venting system can effectively dissipate heat and keep the steak tender and juicy. The temperature probe lets you choose from five heat settings to get the best results on any kind of food.
- [♨ HIGH CAPACITY] - Techwood Electric Barbecue Grill equipped with 240-square-inch cooking rack gives a spacious cooking surface is able accommodate lots of food at one time which lets you make over 15 servings for large groups of people such as, and enjoy the delicious foods together!
- [♨ APARTMENT-APPROVED] - Your landlord will love this outdoor electric grill just as much as you do because the fully electric system gives you high-quality grilling with no charcoal, no propane, and no flare-ups. Porcelain-coated cast iron premium cooking grates are rust-resistant and easy-to-clean.
YANDEA Electric Grill Outdoor Indoor Cooking,Smokeless BBQ,Portable Removeable Stand Grill, (YD301 Upgrade)
We chose the YANDEA Electric Grill as our budget pick because it offers smokeless indoor/outdoor cooking with a portable design at a very accessible price. Our team found it simple to use and easy to clean, making it a great entry-level grill.
- 【SMOKELESS ELECTRIC GRILL】:The electric heating element made from SUS tubelet,offers you a smokelss cooking,heathier favlor.Having your BBQ moment in rainy weather indoor.
- 【2-IN-1 DESIGN】: The YANDEA grill can be used on the stand or can be removed from the stand and used on a table top
- 【COOKING SURFACE】: The non-stick cooking measures 15*8.8 inches recotangle size and fits up to 4-7 servers at a time
- 【GREASE COLLECT】: Grease drips of the cooking surface directly in to the grease tray built-in under the heating element
Key buying factors
Higher wattage (1500W-1800W) generally means faster heating and better searing. We look for models that reach high temperatures quickly and maintain even heat across the cooking surface.
Many buyers need a grill that won't set off smoke alarms. We evaluate each model's smokeless technology, such as cool-touch housing or integrated fans that reduce visible smoke.
Non-stick surfaces are easier to clean and require less oil. We prefer die-cast aluminum or heavy-gauge steel with a quality non-stick coating for durability and even cooking.
For small spaces, compact grills with foldable legs or lightweight designs are essential. We measure actual cooking area and consider storage needs.
Removable plates and dishwasher-safe parts save time. We test how easily grease collects and whether the drip tray is accessible.
Some grills are rated for both indoor and outdoor use. We check for safety features like automatic shut-off and cool-touch handles that make them apartment-friendly.
Types explained
Designed for countertop use with built-in smoke suppression. Ideal for apartments or condos where ventilation is limited.
Best for: Apartment dwellers and those who want year-round grilling indoors.Portable enough for patios, balconies, or camping. Often includes a stand and higher wattage for outdoor performance.
Best for: People with small outdoor spaces or who need a versatile grill for both indoor and outdoor use.Reversible plates allow you to switch between flat griddle and ridged grill surface. Great for breakfast, burgers, and veggies.
Best for: Families who want one appliance for multiple cooking styles.Small footprint with folding legs or carry handle. Best for tailgating, camping, or tight storage.
Best for: Travel and occasional outdoor use.Care & usage tips
Unplug and let the grill cool. Remove the cooking plate and wash with warm soapy water. For non-stick surfaces, avoid abrasive scrubbers.
Grease can accumulate and cause smoking or fire hazard. Empty and wash the drip tray regularly, especially after oily foods.
Once dry, reassemble and store in a dry place. If outdoors, ensure it's in a covered area or use a weatherproof cover.
Our team found that the biggest differentiator among sub-$100 electric grills is heat consistency and smoke control. Models with higher wattage and better non-stick coatings consistently outperformed others, while design features like removable plates made daily use much more pleasant.
We recommend seasoning your electric grill's non-stick surface with a light coat of oil before first use. This helps prevent food from sticking and extends the life of the coating.
Frequently asked questions
Can these grills be used indoors without setting off smoke alarms?+
Yes, most models listed are marketed as smokeless. However, no grill is completely smoke-free. We advise using them near a window or with a kitchen exhaust fan for best results.
How do you clean a non-stick electric grill?+
We recommend letting the grill cool, then wiping the plate with a damp cloth or sponge. For stuck-on residue, use a soft brush and mild soap. Most plates are dishwasher-safe, but check the manual.
What is the difference between indoor and outdoor electric grills?+
Outdoor models often have a higher wattage and a stand, and may be less compact. Indoor models prioritize smoke reduction and a smaller footprint. Many grills are now labeled for both uses.
Can I cook frozen foods directly on these grills?+
We recommend thawing foods first for even cooking. Cooking frozen items can cause uneven heating and may lower the surface temperature, leading to steaming instead of grilling.
Do these grills come with a warranty?+
Most sub-$100 electric grills include a limited warranty (typically 1 year). We suggest checking the manufacturer's warranty policy before purchasing.