Explore the Fire Sense Notebook Charcoal Grill Review: Is It Truly Portable?

Description

Grilling Performance

Using the Fire Sense 60508 Notebook BBQ Grill has been quite the experience. I took it to a family picnic last weekend, and it handled grilling duties for a crowd of eight with surprising efficiency. The 17.34″ x 11.82″ cooking surface area comfortably accommodated burgers, hot dogs, and even skewers. The grill bars, although just 3.5mm thick, provided sufficient heat distribution to cook everything evenly. However, I noticed that the charcoal grate sagged slightly after a couple of uses, a common issue highlighted in other reviews as well. This didn’t ruin the grilling experience, but it does make me wonder about its long-term usability.

Portability & Storage

This grill is an absolute winner when it comes to portability. I’ve never seen a charcoal grill fold down this sleekly into its own carrying case. It folds to just about an inch thick and weighs only 8 lbs, making it easy to carry to the beach, park, or even on camping trips. I tucked it into my car’s trunk, and it barely took up any space. For those like me, who live in compact apartments or frequently travel, this feature is a game-changer. However, I advise keeping the original box for added protection during transport, as some users mentioned it arriving with minimal packaging.

Features

The patented fold-open design is the standout feature of this BBQ grill. It’s incredibly simple to set up—just unfold it, place the grates, and you’re ready to go. The high-temperature-resistant painted steel body adds a touch of durability, though its lightweight nature does give off a slightly flimsy impression. I also appreciated how it seamlessly transitions from a functional grill to a compact storage solution. The high-heat-resistant paint on the alloy steel frame is a nice touch, ensuring the surface doesn’t peel off after the first few uses.

Cleaning

Cleaning this grill is a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, the compact grates and streamlined design make it easy to scrub away the grease. But on the other hand, ash tends to accumulate in the seams of the firebox, which can be tricky to clean out completely. I used a grill mat as recommended by another reviewer, which made cleanup a lot easier and helped protect the grates from harsh burns. If you’re meticulous about cleanliness, this might require a little more effort than other grills.

Durability

The Fire Sense 60508 Notebook BBQ Grill feels sturdy enough for casual grilling, but it’s not built like a tank. After just a few uses, I noticed slight warping in the charcoal grate. This aligns with what other users have reported, particularly those who used it for longer sessions. The thin metal construction keeps it lightweight but comes at the expense of long-term durability. I wouldn’t leave it outside in the rain or subject it to rough handling if you want it to last.

Temperature Control

Being a compact charcoal grill, there aren’t any built-in vents or fancy mechanisms for controlling temperature. You’re at the mercy of how you arrange the coals and how much oxygen they get. I found that lifting the grill grate slightly to add or adjust the charcoal helped regulate the heat. It’s definitely not as user-friendly as larger grills with adjustable vents, but it gets the job done for small gatherings.

Advantages

• Extremely portable and lightweight; folds to just an inch thick.
• Generous cooking area for a grill of this size.
• High-temperature paint and alloy steel construction.
• Simple fold-open design makes setup a breeze.
• Perfect for impromptu cookouts and small gatherings.

Areas of Improvement

• Charcoal grate tends to warp under heat and weight.
• Lack of temperature control features.
• Ash and embers can fall through vents, posing a safety concern on dry surfaces.
• Grill components feel slightly flimsy for prolonged use.

Ease of Use

Setting up this grill couldn’t be easier. I unfolded it in seconds, placed the grates, and was ready to cook. Its compact design eliminates the hassle of assembly, making it a fantastic choice for people like me who dread complicated setups. That said, adding more charcoal mid-session can be a bit tricky since you have to remove the grilling grate to access the firebox.

Warranty

The one-year manufacturer’s warranty is a reassuring touch, but I’d advise managing expectations. Some reviewers have noted that customer service is a mixed bag, with delayed responses in certain cases. I haven’t had to test the warranty yet, but I’d keep this in mind if you’re planning to use the grill frequently.

Competitive Options

Comparing this notebook grill to similar portable charcoal grills, the Weber Go-Anywhere comes to mind. While the Weber offers slightly better durability and temperature control, it’s bulkier and not as sleek in storage. Another competitor is the Cuisinart CCG-190, which is more affordable but lacks the innovative folding mechanism. The Fire Sense grill stands out for its portability and unique design, but it might fall short for those who prioritize longevity and heavy-duty use.

Bang for the Buck

At its price point, this grill offers decent value for money, especially considering its portability and innovative design. It’s perfect for casual users who prioritize convenience over sturdiness. However, if you’re someone who grills often and needs a more robust option, you might want to invest in a slightly pricier model. That being said, for weekend adventurers and occasional BBQ enthusiasts, this grill is definitely worth considering.

Additional information