Masterbuilt Portable Propane Grill MB20030819 Review Compact Design and Outdoor Cooking Performance

Description

Portable Design for Easy Transportation

I’ve had my share of grills over the years, but the Masterbuilt Portable Propane Gas Grill (Model MB20030819) stands out for how ridiculously easy it is to carry around. With folding legs and a locking lid, this grill transforms from cooking mode into travel mode in seconds. The large front carry handle feels sturdy, and I didn’t have to wrestle with it to get it into the car. Whether you’re headed to a tailgate party or a campsite, it’s compact enough to fit in most vehicles without taking up half the trunk.

However, I noticed the locking lid mechanism could be a bit tighter. It stayed shut during transport but felt like it might pop open with a bit of rough handling. While the stainless-steel frame is designed to endure outdoor adventures, I was mildly concerned about how the hinges might hold up after prolonged use.

Cooking Performance and Heat Distribution

The 10,000 BTU stainless steel U-shaped burner is where this grill truly shines. It evenly heated the 288 square inches of cooking space, and I didn’t have to constantly shuffle burgers around to avoid cold spots. This grill makes achieving that perfect sear almost too easy.

I tested it with a mix of chicken, steak, and even a few veggie kabobs, and everything cooked beautifully. The chrome-coated warming rack was a lifesaver for keeping buns warm without burning them. Although this grill operates using small disposable one-pound propane cylinders, I was impressed by how long one cylinder lasted. That said, if you’re planning a full day of grilling, packing an extra propane tank wouldn’t hurt.

One small nitpick: the burner control isn’t as sensitive as I’d like. It takes a bit of finesse to dial in the perfect temperature, especially for low-heat cooking. It’s not a dealbreaker, just something to keep in mind if you’re grilling delicate foods like fish.

Durability and Build Quality

This grill is built almost entirely from stainless steel, and you can feel the quality the moment you take it out of the box. The polished finish is sleek and gives it a premium feel, but it also means fingerprints and smudges are a constant battle. The rust-resistant material is a big plus, especially if you’re like me and tend to leave your grill out overnight by mistake.

The non-stick cooking grates are easy to clean, which is a blessing if you’re someone who dreads post-BBQ cleanup. A quick scrub with a grill brush was all it took to get everything spotless again. However, I did notice that the warming rack’s chrome coating isn’t as durable as the main grates. After a few uses, it showed some minor discoloration.

Who Will Love This Grill?

This is the ultimate grill for anyone who loves outdoor adventures but doesn’t want to lug around a full-sized BBQ. Whether you’re into camping, tailgating, or even just grilling on your apartment balcony, this grill fits the bill. It’s compact enough to store easily, yet powerful enough to cook for a small group.

I wouldn’t recommend it for people who regularly cook for large crowds because the single burner and limited cooking area might feel restrictive. If you’re after something for backyard gatherings of 10+ guests, you’d be better off looking at larger models.

Key Benefits of the Masterbuilt Portable Grill

• Lightweight and portable, with folding legs and a locking lid for easy storage and transport.
• Even heat distribution thanks to the 10,000 BTU U-shaped burner.
• Durable stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
• Non-stick cooking grates make cleanup a breeze.
• Chrome-coated warming rack provides extra space for keeping food warm.

Areas for Improvement

• The burner control could allow for finer adjustments, especially for low-heat grilling.
• Locking lid mechanism feels a bit loose and could be more secure during transport.
• The chrome-coated warming rack shows signs of wear sooner than expected.

Competing Brands

Compared to other portable gas grills like the Weber Q1200 or Coleman RoadTrip, this one holds its own in terms of heat output and portability. The Masterbuilt grill is lighter and easier to transport than the RoadTrip, but the latter offers a larger cooking surface and dual burners for more versatility.

The Weber Q1200, on the other hand, excels in temperature control and feels slightly more premium, but it comes at a higher price point. While the Masterbuilt grill lacks some of the bells and whistles of its competitors, it makes up for it with its affordable quality and straightforward design.

Smart Spending in Outdoor Grills

For its price, this grill delivers fantastic performance and portability. While it’s not packed with high-end features, it does everything you need for a portable grill and does it well. If you’re after true value in a compact, durable package, this grill is worth every penny.

Of course, if you’re someone who loves gadgets and extra features, you might find this grill a bit basic. However, for those who prioritize durability and ease of use without breaking the bank, it’s hard to go wrong here.

Additional information