BESTFIRE 2 Burner 20,000 BTU Portable Gas Grill Review: The Portable Powerhouse with a Size Paradox

There’s a familiar story many of us who love the outdoors share. It’s the tale of a beautiful day, a perfect spot for a picnic or tailgate, and the sad, sputtering flame of an underpowered portable grill. We’ve all been there: trying to sear a steak that ends up grey and steamed, waiting an eternity for chicken to cook through, or juggling a handful of burgers on a cooking surface the size of a dinner plate. The promise of “grilling on the go” often translates to a frustrating compromise, sacrificing real cooking power for the sake of a smaller footprint. This compromise means we either haul our massive, heavy backyard grill with great effort or settle for subpar food that doesn’t capture the true joy of an outdoor barbecue. The search for a solution—a truly portable grill with the heart and heat of a full-sized unit—is what led us to test the BESTFIRE 2 Burner 20,000 BTU Portable Gas Grill.

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 beyond your backyard. It’s about bringing the sizzle of a perfectly cooked meal to a campsite, a stadium parking lot, or a small apartment balcony. The main benefit is achieving high-heat, flavorful cooking in a compact, self-contained package. Unlike charcoal, propane offers instant, controllable heat, making it faster, cleaner, and more convenient for travel. It solves the problem of wanting authentic grilled flavor without the space, mess, or setup time of a traditional barbecue.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who values both performance and mobility. This includes RV enthusiasts, frequent campers, tailgating aficionados, and those with limited patio or balcony space. They need a grill that’s powerful enough to handle a variety of foods for a small group but still manageable to transport and store. On the other hand, this category might not be suitable for those who regularly cook for large crowds (requiring a much larger cooking surface) or for ultralight backpackers where every ounce counts. For the latter, a single-burner backpacking stove would be a more appropriate alternative.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Portability: This is the most critical factor. Pay close attention not just to the listed dimensions but also the weight. A grill might be “tabletop” sized but weigh over 30 pounds, making it a chore to carry. Consider features like locking lids and sturdy handles, which significantly impact how easy it is to move the grill from your car to your cooking spot. Always measure your intended storage space, be it in an RV compartment or a car trunk, before buying.
• Power & Performance (BTUs): BTUs (British Thermal Units) measure heat output. For a portable grill, anything over 10,000 BTUs for a single burner is solid, and dual-burner models like the BESTFIRE offering 20,000 BTUs provide serious power. This high output ensures faster preheating, better searing, and more consistent performance in windy conditions. Multiple burners also allow for two-zone cooking—a pro-level technique for managing different foods at once.
• Materials & Durability: Stainless steel is a premium material for grills, offering excellent rust resistance and longevity. It’s also relatively easy to clean. Cheaper models might use painted steel, which can chip and rust over time. Pay attention to the grates as well; stainless steel or porcelain-enameled cast iron are the best choices for heat retention and durability. A solid build with minimal flimsy parts is a sign of a grill that will last many seasons.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Look for features like push-button ignition, which eliminates the need for matches or lighters. A built-in thermometer is invaluable for monitoring cooking temperatures without constantly opening the lid and losing heat. For maintenance, a removable grease tray is a must-have feature. It makes cleanup dramatically simpler and helps prevent flare-ups, which we found to be a key consideration for safe operation.

While the BESTFIRE 2 Burner 20,000 BTU 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:

First Impressions: Big Power in a Surprisingly Big Box

Upon unboxing the BESTFIRE 2 Burner 20,000 BTU Portable Gas Grill, our initial reaction was one of surprise. We were expecting a compact “tabletop” unit, but the reality is something more substantial. As one user aptly noted, “I have to admit I didn’t expect such a big grill…it is much larger than that, it is 22”x 20” instead.” We can confirm this observation; while some product descriptions list smaller dimensions, the actual footprint is closer to 22 by 20 inches. This isn’t necessarily a negative, as it provides a generous cooking area, but it’s a critical factor for anyone with tight space constraints. The unit was packaged securely, and assembly was straightforward, involving little more than attaching the legs and placing the ignition plates, confirming another user’s experience of “Easy assembly of legs and parts.” The polished stainless steel finish gives it a premium, professional look that stands out among a sea of black-painted competitors. The high lid, large carrying handle, and side latches all feel robust, giving an initial impression of a well-built, powerful machine that prioritizes cooking space over ultimate portability. You can see its full feature set and striking design here.

A Deep Dive into the BESTFIRE Grill’s Performance

A grill’s worth is measured in the sear marks on a steak and the evenness of its heat. We put the BESTFIRE 2 Burner 20,000 BTU Portable Gas Grill through a series of real-world cooking tests, from burgers and hot dogs for a quick lunch to thick-cut pork chops and vegetable skewers for a full dinner. Our goal was to push its dual burners to their limits and see if the impressive BTU rating translated into superior cooking performance.

Sheer Grilling Power: Unpacking the 20,000 BTUs

The standout feature of this grill is, without a doubt, its raw power. The 20,000 BTUs, split between two independently controlled burners, is a specification you’d expect to see on a much larger, stationary grill. This power is not just for show. In our testing, the grill reached a searing temperature of over 500°F in under five minutes, a feat many portable grills struggle to achieve at all. This rapid preheating is a huge advantage when you’re hungry and eager to get cooking. The heat distribution across the stainless steel grates was impressively even, with no major hot or cold spots detected. This was confirmed during our burger test, where patties placed on the edges cooked just as quickly and evenly as those in the center, a finding echoed by a user who praised it because it “Cooks burgers and hot dogs fast and even.”

The true magic, however, lies in the dual-burner setup. This allowed us to create a two-zone cooking environment. We could crank one burner to high for a hard sear on steaks while leaving the other on low to gently warm buns or grill delicate vegetables. This level of control is a game-changer for a portable grill, elevating it from a simple cooker to a versatile outdoor kitchen tool. The high, domed lid, combined with the built-in thermometer, also made it possible to do some indirect grilling and even roast a small chicken, something unimaginable on most compact grills. The sheer heat output is a feature that really sets it apart from the low-powered competition.

Build Quality and Design: A Stainless Steel Statement

The BESTFIRE 2 Burner 20,000 BTU Portable Gas Grill is constructed almost entirely of polished stainless steel, giving it a sleek and durable feel. This material choice is not just aesthetic; it provides excellent resistance to rust and corrosion, which is crucial for a product designed for outdoor use. The main body, lid, handle, and even the cooking grates are all stainless steel. The grates are lightweight but sturdy enough to support heavy cuts of meat and provided decent, though not exceptional, sear marks. We found it lived up to user comments that “It’s stainless steel and looks great.”

The design includes several thoughtful features aimed at portability and convenience. The lid locks securely to the base with two large latches on the side, and a substantial handle on top makes it possible to carry it one-handed, albeit with some effort due to the weight. The push-button ignition worked flawlessly on the first try every time, providing a quick and safe way to light the burners. The integrated thermometer in the lid, while not as precise as a digital probe, gave a reliable general reading of the internal temperature, which was helpful for preheating and roasting. The foldable legs provide a stable base on a tabletop and tuck away neatly for transport. Overall, the build quality feels solid and capable of withstanding the bumps and scrapes of travel.

The Portability Paradox: Big Grill, Big Questions

This is where our review becomes more nuanced. The product is marketed as a “Portable Propane Grill,” but its portability is highly subjective. Weighing in at over 25 pounds and with a footprint of 22×20 inches, it pushes the definition of the category. This isn’t a grill you’d carry for any significant distance. As one particularly critical user stated, “This grill is not portable by any stretch of imagination… It is too heavy and too bulky to move around.” We found this to be a fair assessment if your idea of portable means easily carrying it to a remote picnic spot. There are no handles on the sides, so all the weight is borne by the single top handle, which can be awkward.

However, if “portable” means moving it from your garage to your patio, or from your RV’s storage bay to a campsite picnic table, then it absolutely fits the bill. It’s a “luggable” grill rather than a truly “portable” one. For RVers, car campers, and tailgaters with vehicle space, the larger size is a benefit, offering “Lots of cooking room.” The confusion stems from the conflicting dimensions listed online and the general expectations set by the “tabletop” category. Our final take is this: if your priority is maximum cooking power and surface area that you can still fit in a vehicle, this grill is an outstanding choice. If your priority is light weight and a small footprint for easy carrying, you should look closely at the dimensions and weight specifications before deciding.

Operation, Cleanup, and a Word of Caution

In terms of day-to-day operation, the BESTFIRE 2 Burner 20,000 BTU Portable Gas Grill is wonderfully simple. The control knobs are responsive, allowing for fine-tuned temperature adjustments. Cleanup is straightforward thanks to the stainless steel construction and a removable grease tray that slides out from the bottom. The grates are easy to scrub clean with a grill brush, and the main body can be wiped down with a damp cloth.

However, we must address a significant concern raised in user feedback regarding accessories and support. One user reported that the grill did not come with the necessary adapter to use 1 lb camping propane cylinders and that their attempts to resolve this with the seller were met with silence. Our test unit came with a hose and regulator designed for a standard 20 lb propane tank. While this is common for high-BTU grills (as they would quickly drain a small cylinder), the lack of clarity and poor customer service reported is a major red flag. We advise potential buyers to assume the grill is set up for a 20 lb tank and to budget for a separate adapter if they intend to use 1 lb cylinders. This potential issue is a significant mark against an otherwise high-performing product and is something to consider when weighing your options.

What Other Users Are Saying

Diving into the pool of user feedback reveals a consistent story that aligns with our own findings. The positive sentiment overwhelmingly centers on the grill’s core function: cooking. Users repeatedly praise its high heat, fast cooking times, and spacious grilling surface, with comments like, “Great little 2 burner grill… Cooks great,” and “I love this grill! Cooks burgers and hot dogs fast and even.” The attractive stainless steel appearance and easy assembly are also common points of satisfaction.

Conversely, the negative feedback is just as consistent and focuses almost exclusively on its size and the definition of “portable.” The discrepancy between advertised and actual dimensions is a major point of frustration for some, leading to reviews stating it’s “too heavy and too bulky.” The most concerning feedback involves the report of a missing adapter for camping cylinders coupled with a complete lack of customer support. This suggests potential quality control and service issues that, while not universal, are significant enough to warrant caution before you make your final purchasing decision.

How Does the BESTFIRE Grill Compare to the Competition?

The BESTFIRE 2 Burner 20,000 BTU Portable Gas Grill offers a compelling package of power and space, but it exists in a crowded market. To understand its value, we need to compare it directly to some popular alternatives. It’s a strong contender, but whether it’s the right choice depends entirely on your specific needs for power, portability, and cooking style.

1. Royal Gourmet PD1301S 3-Burner Tabletop Gas Grill Griddle

The Royal Gourmet PD1301S presents the most direct competition in terms of power, offering an even higher 25,500 BTUs across three burners. The key difference is its cooking surface: it’s a flat-top griddle, not a grill. This makes it the superior choice for anyone who wants to cook breakfast foods like pancakes and bacon, or make smash burgers and hibachi-style dishes. It sacrifices the open-flame sear and grill marks of the BESTFIRE for unparalleled versatility. If your outdoor cooking dreams involve more than just traditional grilling, the Royal Gourmet griddle is likely the better fit for your needs.

2. Cuisinart Petite Gourmet Portable Gas Grill

The Cuisinart Petite Gourmet sits at the opposite end of the portability spectrum. With just 5,500 BTUs and a much smaller cooking area, it is the definition of a truly portable, lightweight grill. Its folding legs and briefcase-style carry handle make it incredibly easy to transport, perfect for solo campers, beach trips, or those with minimal storage space. However, its low power means it struggles with searing and takes longer to cook. A user should choose the Cuisinart over the BESTFIRE only if extreme portability and light weight are their absolute top priorities, and they are willing to sacrifice significant cooking power and space to get it.

3. Captiva Designs 22 in 3-Burner Propane Griddle

Similar to the Royal Gourmet, the Captiva Designs model is another powerful three-burner griddle, boasting 24,000 BTUs. Its standout feature is the ceramic-coated cast iron pan, which provides excellent heat retention and a naturally non-stick surface that improves with seasoning. This makes it a formidable competitor for those leaning towards a flat-top cooking style. The choice between this and the BESTFIRE comes down to a fundamental question: do you want the char and flavor of grill grates or the versatile, even surface of a griddle? For those who prefer griddling, the Captiva Designs is a high-quality alternative.

Our Final Verdict: Is the BESTFIRE Grill Right for You?

After extensive testing, our verdict on the BESTFIRE 2 Burner 20,000 BTU Portable Gas Grill is overwhelmingly positive, with a few important caveats. This is not your average portable grill; it is a compact powerhouse that delivers the heat and cooking area of a much larger unit. Its dual 10,000 BTU burners provide exceptional power for rapid preheating and perfect searing, while the stainless steel construction ensures durability and a premium look. For RV owners, car campers, tailgaters, and patio dwellers who crave serious grilling performance without a full-size footprint, this grill is a fantastic choice.

However, its claim to “portability” must be taken with a grain of salt. Its significant weight and larger-than-expected size make it less than ideal for situations requiring true mobility. Furthermore, the potential for missing accessories and questionable customer support is a risk that cannot be ignored. If you have the space to transport it and are prepared for its heft, you will be rewarded with an outstanding and versatile cooking machine. For those who prioritize power and performance in a transportable package, the BESTFIRE 2 Burner 20,000 BTU Portable Gas Grill is an exceptional value that we can confidently recommend.