Dyna-Glo Portable Grill Review – Your Go-To Grilling Companion
Introduction
Weekend barbecues shouldn’t be confined to the backyard. But limited portability and inconsistent heat often hold us back from truly enjoying outdoor cooking on the go. Imagine a world where you could effortlessly grill at a tailgate, campsite, or a friend’s cabin—all while maintaining that signature smoky flavor and consistent searing power. The Dyna-Glo Portable Tabletop Charcoal Grill & Side Firebox addresses these frustrations, offering a compact, versatile solution for truly mobile grilling.
Too often, portable grills compromise on quality, offering flimsy construction and uneven heating. Flare-ups, ash management headaches, and difficulty controlling temperature are all too common. The Dyna-Glo DGSS287CB-D tackles these issues head-on, providing a robust, portable grilling experience without sacrificing performance or convenience. This isn’t just a small grill; it’s a mini barbecue powerhouse.
Overview
The Dyna-Glo Portable Tabletop Charcoal Grill & Side Firebox is a compact, rugged grilling unit designed for maximum portability and versatility. Built around a heavy-gauge steel frame and finished with a durable black powder coat, this grill is as tough as it is functional. Its unique side firebox design adds another layer of cooking capability, allowing for horizontal smoking when paired with compatible Dyna-Glo barrel grills. This is an ideal grill for those who crave the smoky flavor and grilling experience of charcoal, but need a lightweight and easily transportable solution.
Whether you’re tailgating, camping, or simply looking to expand your backyard cooking options, the Dyna-Glo is ready. It’s particularly well-suited for smaller households, couples, or anyone who enjoys grilling but doesn’t want the hassle of a full-sized grill. This grill is for the outdoor cooking enthusiast who values portability, convenience, and the authentic charcoal grilling experience.
Features
Integrated Side Firebox for Horizontal Smoking: This unique feature allows you to connect the grill to compatible Dyna-Glo Signature Series barrel grills (sold separately), creating a horizontal smoking setup. Advantage: Expands your cooking options, allowing you to smoke ribs, brisket, or other slow-cooked favorites. Benefit: Enjoy restaurant-quality smoked meats without needing a dedicated smoker.
Porcelain Enameled Steel Charcoal Tray & Cooking Grates: The porcelain enamel coating on both the charcoal tray and cooking grates provides superior heat distribution and easy cleanup. Advantage: Food cooks evenly, minimizing hot spots and ensuring consistent results. Benefit: Say goodbye to frustrating uneven cooking and tedious scrubbing—cleanup is a breeze.
Cool-Touch Spring Lid Handles: These cleverly designed handles remain cool to the touch even when the grill is hot. Advantage: Safe and convenient handling, preventing accidental burns. Benefit: Provides peace of mind, especially when grilling with children or in crowded areas.
Heavy-Gauge Steel Body Construction: The Dyna-Glo’s robust steel frame is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. This provides exceptional durability, preventing rust and warping, even with frequent transport and exposure to the elements. Advantage: You get a grill that will last for years, not just a season. Benefit: Enjoy consistent performance and peace of mind, knowing your grill can handle the adventure.
Removable Charcoal Tray & Ash Pan: The easily removable charcoal tray and ash pan simplify fuel management and cleanup. Advantage: Quickly add charcoal and effortlessly dispose of ash, keeping the grilling area clean and organized. Benefit: Spend less time on maintenance and more time enjoying your barbecue.
Benefits
Consistent Heat for Perfect Results: The heavy-gauge steel and porcelain-coated surfaces ensure even heat distribution across the cooking grates, eliminating hot spots and promoting consistent cooking. Every bite is as delicious as the last.
Easy Cleanup and Maintenance: Spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your food. The removable charcoal tray and ash pan, along with the porcelain-coated surfaces, make cleanup a breeze.
Versatile Cooking Options with Smoking Capability: Move beyond basic grilling. The side firebox creates a true smoking experience for low-and-slow cooking. Experiment with ribs, brisket, or pulled pork, all with that authentic smoky flavor.
Durable Construction for Long-Lasting Enjoyment: Built to withstand the elements, the Dyna-Glo’s robust steel frame and powder-coat finish provide exceptional durability and longevity. This is an investment that will last for years to come.
Ultimate Portability for Any Adventure: Take the joy of grilling anywhere! Its compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for tailgating, camping, beach trips, or picnics. Enjoy the delicious taste of grilled food wherever you go.
Usages
Small Backyard BBQs: Ideal for small patios or balconies where space is limited. Host intimate gatherings without sacrificing grilling performance.
Tailgating & Camping: Perfect for those game-day gatherings and weekend adventures. Its compact size and portability make it easy to transport and set up anywhere.
Weeknight Grilling: Quick and easy weeknight meals are a breeze. Grill up burgers, hot dogs, or chicken skewers in minutes – no need to fire up a full-sized grill.
Expanding BBQ Cooking Options: Adds significant versatility to existing Dyna-Glo Signature Series charcoal grills, allowing for horizontal smoking and a larger overall cooking surface.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extremely portable and lightweight
- Versatile cooking options with side firebox
- Durable construction for long-lasting use
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Limited cooking area compared to larger grills
- Requires a separate Dyna-Glo barrel grill for smoking functionality
- May not be ideal for cooking large quantities of food
- Smaller fuel capacity compared to full-size grills
FAQs
How easy is it to clean?: The porcelain-enameled surfaces and removable charcoal tray and ash pan make cleanup relatively easy. Simply brush off the grates and discard the ashes.
What fuel types are compatible?: This grill is designed for use with charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal. Avoid using starter fluids or flammable liquids.
Does it retain heat well?: The heavy-gauge steel construction provides good heat retention, but it’s still a tabletop grill, so expect a shorter cooking time compared to larger grills or smokers.
What is the warranty period?: Dyna-Glo offers a 3-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
Can I use it for smoking?: Absolutely! When paired with a compatible Dyna-Glo barrel grill, the side firebox creates a horizontal smoking setup for low-and-slow cooking.
Product Specifications
| Grate Material | Porcelain Enameled Steel |
| Warranty | 3-Year Limited Warranty |
| Dimensions | 24.17″D x 18.35″W x 21″H |
| Included Accessories | Grill with Side Firebox |
| Material | Alloy Steel with Powder Coat Finish |
| Cooking Area | 287 square inches |
| Weight | 40.7 pounds |
| Fuel Type | Charcoal |
| Ignition System | Manual |
Ratings
| Cooking Performance | 4.5 |
| Overall | 4.4 |
| Durability | 4.6 |
| Portability | 4.8 |
| Ease of Use | 4.3 |
| Heat Distribution | 4.2 |
Recommendation
This grill is perfect for individuals or couples who enjoy grilling but have limited space or a need for portability. It’s an excellent option for tailgaters, campers, and those who want to expand their outdoor cooking options without the commitment of a full-sized grill.
For BBQ enthusiasts seeking a compact and versatile grilling solution, the Dyna-Glo Portable Tabletop Grill & Side Firebox provides an impressive combination of portability, performance, and affordability. While it may not replace a dedicated smoker, it offers a surprising degree of versatility for its size and price point.
Conclusion
The Dyna-Glo Portable Tabletop Charcoal Grill & Side Firebox delivers a powerful punch in a compact package. Its portability, versatility, and durability make it a standout choice for anyone seeking a convenient and enjoyable grilling experience, whether you’re at a tailgate party or simply grilling in your backyard. The side firebox feature adds a unique element of smoking capability, setting it apart from many other portable grills.
While its cooking area is limited, the Dyna-Glo’s benefits – its portability, ease of use, and the potential for smoky flavor – far outweigh its drawbacks. It’s a valuable addition to any outdoor cooking arsenal, especially for those who prioritize convenience and versatility.
