Explore the Grills House GT2001 Portable Gas Grill Review: Is It Worth Your Money?

Description

Grilling Performance

I’ve put the stainless steel portable grill with two handles and travel locks, model GT2001, to the test multiple times, and its grilling performance is one of the first things that impressed me. The 10,000 BTU burner delivers a surprisingly even heat distribution thanks to its U-shaped design. Whether I grilled steaks, chicken, or even delicate vegetables, the results were consistent. Searing steaks to perfection was easy, and I even managed to achieve those Instagram-worthy grill marks. However, I noticed that fat dripping onto the flame tamer occasionally caused flare-ups, especially with fattier cuts of meat. That said, a quick adjustment of the flame control mitigated these issues, making it a reliable choice for most grilling scenarios.

Cleaning

Cleaning this grill was a mixed bag for me. On one hand, the removable grease cup made it easy to discard collected oil and residue. I loved that feature because it saved me from scrubbing the bottom of the grill. However, there are sharp edges around the burner tube area, so cleaning the interior requires careful maneuvering. A helpful trick I discovered was lining the bottom with foil before cooking, which made cleanup a breeze. The stainless steel finish also wiped clean fairly easily, though stubborn grease stains needed a bit of elbow grease. For anyone who hates scrubbing, this grill offers some conveniences but isn’t entirely hassle-free.

Ease of Use

Using this tabletop propane grill felt intuitive, even for a grilling novice like my cousin, who borrowed it for a weekend cookout. The folding legs and travel locks made setting it up straightforward, and connecting the propane tank was a simple process. I particularly appreciated the large handles, which made moving the grill around my patio effortless. The single burner design worked well for smaller gatherings, but for larger parties, I found myself wishing for a dual-burner option to manage different heat zones. Regardless, the straightforward assembly and operation made it a user-friendly addition to my outdoor cooking arsenal.

Pros

• Even heat distribution thanks to the 10,000 BTU U-shaped burner.
• Portable design with folding legs and travel locks for easy transport.
• Large cooking surface for its size: 214 sq. in. grill grates and a 71 sq. in. warming rack.
• Durable stainless steel construction with a sleek, modern look.

Temperature Control

The flame adjustment knob on this grill worked surprisingly well. I was able to maintain a steady 350°F for slow-cooking chicken, but it also cranked up high enough to sear burgers and steaks. However, I did notice that the built-in thermometer wasn’t always accurate, especially at higher temperatures. During one grilling session, it showed 700°F when the actual grill surface wasn’t nearly that hot. This slight inconsistency made me cautious about relying solely on the thermometer and prompted me to use an external temperature gauge for more precise readings.

Portability & Storage

As someone who enjoys both backyard cookouts and camping trips, portability is a big deal for me, and this grill nailed it. At 19.2 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to carry without breaking a sweat, and the folding legs made it compact enough to fit in the trunk of my car. The travel locks kept the lid secure during transport, so I didn’t have to worry about it rattling around. Storage at home was just as convenient—it fit neatly in my garage next to a stack of folding chairs. While it’s great for portability, I did wish for a carry bag or cover to keep it protected during travel.

Features

This grill comes packed with thoughtful features. The stainless steel construction ensures durability and adds a polished aesthetic. The cooking grates, made of chrome-plated steel wire, provided a non-stick surface that performed well during my tests. The addition of a warming rack was a pleasant surprise, as it allowed me to toast buns while the main grill was in use. The single U-shaped burner, while efficient, felt limiting for those who want to multitask with different heat zones. The grease cup, an underrated feature, was another highlight—it’s easy to remove and clean, making post-grill maintenance less of a chore.

Durability

Over time, I noticed the stainless steel construction holding up well against wear and tear. Even after several uses, the grill showed no signs of rust or discoloration. The folding legs felt sturdy and didn’t wobble, even on uneven surfaces like my backyard patio. However, the chrome-plated grates required careful cleaning to maintain their finish. I accidentally scratched the surface once with a metal spatula, so I recommend sticking to silicone or wooden tools. Overall, the grill’s build quality gives me confidence that it will last through many summers of grilling.

Negatives

• Built-in thermometer isn’t always reliable for precise readings.
• Sharp edges near the burner tube make deep cleaning slightly tedious.
• Single burner design limits multitasking with different heat zones.

Warranty

The one-year limited warranty offered some peace of mind, though I didn’t need to use it during my testing. I did, however, read reviews where others mentioned responsive customer service for component replacements, like igniters. Knowing that the company stands behind its product added an extra layer of trust for me. Still, I’d have liked to see an extended warranty option for such a well-built grill.

Product Rivals

When compared to competing brands like the Weber Q1200 or the Coleman RoadTrip 285, this grill holds its own in terms of portability and cooking performance. The Weber model excels with dual burners for better heat control but comes at a significantly higher price point. Coleman’s option offers a collapsible design with wheels, making it more portable for tailgating but less sturdy due to its plastic components. This stainless steel tabletop grill stands out for its durability and sleek design but could improve on features like heat zone control and thermometer accuracy.

Smart Spending

For its price range, this grill offers excellent value. The combination of stainless steel construction, portability, and efficient grilling performance makes it a solid investment. While it lacks some advanced features found in pricier models, it delivers where it counts, particularly for casual grillers or those who need a portable option for camping or picnics. If you’re looking for a reliable grill without breaking the bank, this one strikes a good balance between affordability and functionality.

Additional information