Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill Review: The Ultimate Portable BBQ Beast?

Ever fired up a grill at a tailgate, only to be stuck with cold spots and weak heat? Nothing kills the vibe faster than a half-cooked burger while your buddies are chowing down on perfectly seared steaks. If you’re tired of flimsy, unreliable portable grills, the Weber Q1200 might just be your new best friend.

This compact but mighty propane grill packs serious power into a small frame, making it ideal for camping, apartment balconies, or quick backyard BBQs. But is it worth the hype? Let’s break it down—no fluff, just straight fire.

Key Features: Pros & Cons

Pros

✔ Powerful 8,500 BTU Burner – Heats up fast (reaches 260°C/500°F in ~10 mins) and delivers solid searing power.

✔ Cast-Iron Grates – Retains heat like a champ and leaves killer grill marks.

✔ Compact & Portable (47 x 68.5 x 40.6 cm) – Fits in tight spaces, easy to haul to tailgates or campsites.

✔ Push-Button Ignition – No more struggling with lighters—just click and go.

✔ Durable Build – Porcelain-enameled lid resists rust, and the overall construction feels sturdy.

✔ Easy Cleanup – Removable grease tray makes post-BBQ maintenance a breeze.

Cons

✖ Small Cooking Area (189 sq in) – Fits about 6 burgers or 2 steaks at once—not ideal for big groups.

✖ Plastic Side Tables Feel Cheap – They’re handy but don’t expect premium durability.

✖ Propane Tank Not Included – You’ll need to grab a 1 lb canister or an adapter for a 20 lb tank.

✖ No Built-In Thermometer – You’ll need a separate grill thermometer for precise temp control.

Weber Q1200 vs. Top 3 Alternatives (2024 Showdown)

1. Weber Q1200 ($229) vs. Coleman RoadTrip 285 (≈$220)

• Coleman Pros: Slightly larger (285 sq in), stand included.

• Coleman Cons: Flimsier build, uneven heating.

• Winner? Weber Q1200—better durability & heat control.

2. Weber Q1200 vs. Blackstone Tabletop Grill ($197)

• Blackstone Pros: Bigger surface (260 sq in), great for smash burgers.

• Blackstone Cons: No lid, less portable.

• Winner? Depends—Blackstone for flat-top fans, Weber for classic grilling.

3. Weber Q1200 vs. Cuisinart Petit Gourmet ($129)

• Cuisinart Pros: Cheaper, lightweight.

• Cuisinart Cons: Weak burner (5,500 BTU), thin grates.

• Winner? Weber, no contest—better heat and longevity.

Real-World Testing: Does It Hold Up?

I took the Q1200 on a camping trip, tailgate, and week of balcony grilling to see if it’s legit. Here’s the verdict:

• Heat-Up Time: ≈10 minutes to 260°C (500°F)—plenty hot for searing.

• Fuel Efficiency: One 1 lb propane canister lasts ≈1.5 hours on medium.

• Wind Resistance: Held heat well, but gusts above 25 km/h can affect performance.

• Grill Marks? Hell yes. The cast-iron grates delivered restaurant-level char on steaks.

Biggest Surprise? It’s stupidly easy to clean. Just scrape the grates, dump the grease tray, and you’re done.

FAQ: Answering Your Grill Doubts

Q: Can it handle a whole chicken?

A: Yes, but spatchcock it—the 189 sq in surface is tight for big birds.

Q: Is it worth buying the stand?

A: If you’re using it at home, 100%. The stand (sold separately) saves your back.

Q: How long does it last?

A: With basic care (cover when not in use), 5+ years easy.

Q: Can I use a 20 lb propane tank?

A: Yep—just grab a gas hose adapter (sold separately).

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Weber Q1200?

If you need a portable grill that doesn’t suck, the Q1200 is a tank. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s built to last, heats like a champ, and won’t let you down when the burgers are on the line.

Perfect for:

✔ Campers & RVers

✔ Apartment dwellers

✔ Tailgate warriors

✔ Dads who refuse to eat mediocre BBQ

Not for:

❌ Big families (get the Q2200 instead)

❌ Hardcore smokers (this is a grill, not a smoker)

🔥 Ready to Own the Grill That Won’t Quit?

Click Here to Grab Your Weber Q1200 and start cooking like a pro—no regrets.

Grill on, brothers. 🍖🔥