Among the Weber Q portable gas grills (there are six), the Weber Q 200 is right in the middle in terms of size and features. This compact unit folds to a modest 23-inch (width) by 14-inch (height) shell for easy transport to/from a ballgame, campout or other tailgating venue. The grill features a clamshell design, with a hinged top lid and rounded base set on a sturdy nylon frame for stability. Assembly of this unit was minimal, consisting of inserting hinge pins to attach the lid to the body and also fastening the front lid handle with two regular screws.

The grill surface is a modified rectangle, measuring approximately 15x21 inches at its widest points. Altogether, there is approximately 280 square inches of cooking space. The heavy porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grate heats evenly and is slotted to allow the flame cooked flavor through and let fats and grease drip away.

A step up from the two Q 100 models, the Q 200 has two handy 11x12-inch flip-out side shelves, made from lightweight yet durable nylon. We were surprised at the sturdiness of the shelves, which seemed able to support relatively heavy platters and condiment jars.

Lighting the grill was fairly easy. The only tricky part was attaching the 1-pound propane cylinder, which needs to be at just the right angle for the threads to properly engage to twist the tank in place. Once the fuel is attached, you simply need to turn the adjustable heat dial to high and push the igniter button several times to create a spark. Weber's flint-style igniter never needs batteries and is always ready to go.

The temperature of the grill climbed to almost 500 degrees Fahrenheit with the lid closed. Opening the lid caused a drip in overall temperature at about 400-500 degrees. We liked the fact that the nylon frame stayed relatively cool protecting the surface below.

Since this model does not have a stand, you will need to set it up on a picnic table or other surface to grill. You can, of course, place the grill on the ground -- so long as the chef does not mind bending to do the grilling. For out tests, placing the unit on a folding table worked fine, since it raised the grill surface up to a reasonable grilling height.

We were impressed, as usual, with Weber's quality construction. The burner tube is stainless steel and the grill body and domed lid are cast aluminum, which should provide years of reliable use. The nylon frame and side table are glass reinforced for added strength and have a certain amount of resiliency but care should be taken not to pile or store heavy objects on top of the grill.

The Weber Q 200 is designed to work with disposable 14.1-ounce LP cylinders but can also be adapted to use a 20-pound propane tank. The total Btu output is 12,000. An optional rolling cart and vinyl grill cover are available separately. For the price, the Weber Q 200 is a fantastic little grill to cook at home or take on the road.


Pros: Compact travel size, folding nylon side shelves, 12,000 Btu, stainless steel burner, porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grate
Cons: Limited cooking space, requires a separate table or stand to raise grill up if desired

Warranty
2 years, paint (excluding fading or discoloration) and parts; 5 years, aluminum castings and Thermoplastic parts