Coleman Roadtrip LXX vs LXE: Which Should You Buy? [2024]

A Pitmaster’s Deep-Dive Into Two Fan-Favorite Portable Grills

The Tailgate Dilemma

If you hang around campsites, tailgate lots, or fishing docks long enough, two things always show up:

1. People who swear their way of grilling is the only correct way.
2. A Coleman RoadTrip grill.

Portable grills have become the pitmasters’ travel companion of choice, and Coleman’s RoadTrip line is basically the “pickup truck” of the portable grill world: rugged, dependable, and one model away from a family feud.

But today, we’re settling one of the most common debates – Coleman RoadTrip LXX vs LXE.

I’ve cooked on both – burgers at a kid’s game, ribeye by the lake, fajitas in a Walmart parking lot during a hurricane evacuation (long story). Each grill has its thing. Each also has its “why is this here?” feature. And choosing between them isn’t always obvious.

So let’s break this down pitmaster-style:

Clean. Direct. No fluff. No academic lectures about thermodynamics. Just real-world heat.

In the sections ahead, we’ll compare performance, build, burners, cooking surface, portability, fuel efficiency, ignition reliability, accessories, price, and who each grill is actually best for.

What the RoadTrip Series Is (and Isn’t)

Before we get into the head-to-head, let’s zoom out. Coleman didn’t build the RoadTrip series to win beauty contests or to replace your backyard smoker.

These are portable grills designed for people who need real heat in unpredictable places – gravel lots, windy beaches, muddy campsites, awkward cabin decks, and the occasional weird Airbnb patio that looks like it was built by a committee.

A Foldable, Packable, Rollable Grill System

RoadTrip grills all follow the same basic blueprint:

• A folding scissor-leg stand so you don’t have to grill at knee height like your ancestors.
• Two burners on most models, enough to sear on one side and keep warm on the other.
• A wide cooktop surface that feels more like a backyard grill than a travel toy.
• Swap-able cooktop plates (griddles, grill grates, even a stove grate if you want to boil water for ramen like a champion).
• And of course, propane-powered, usually from 1-lb bottles unless you upgrade to a proper tank.

What They’re NOT

Let’s be honest for a second:

• This is not your cast-iron offset smoker.
• It’s not going to win a Texas brisket competition – unless the competition is “fastest fajita station.”
• And no, you can’t stuff a whole Thanksgiving turkey in here (I’ve seen people try).

But that’s not the point.

The RoadTrip series exists to give you real grill performance when you’re far from your home setup, and the two most talked-about models – the LXE and the LXX – are variations on that same mission.

Where the Debate Begins

People usually choose between the LXX and LXE because:

• They look almost identical at first glance
• They share most of the same accessories.
• Their price difference changes depending on sales.
• And Coleman’s product naming system sometimes feels like someone threw Scrabble tiles and picked letters at random.

But the differences are real, and depending on how you grill, they matter more than you might think.

Quick Specs Overview – Side-by-Side Snapshot

Before we dive into the gritty pitmaster opinions, let’s put the numbers on the table. Specs don’t tell the whole story, but they do set the stage. Think of this as reading the nutrition label before you inhale an entire rack of ribs.

Here’s a simple snapshot of what you’re dealing with:

Burner Power

• Coleman RoadTrip LXE: 20,000 BTUs total
• Coleman RoadTrip LXX: 22,000 BTUs total 

On paper: LXX wins.

In real life: We’ll talk about why that 2,000 BTU difference matters – and sometimes doesn’t.

Cooking Surface

• Both: 285 sq. in. of cooking space

Enough room for: 

• 12–14 burgers
• 6 ribeye steaks
• 18 hotdogs
• Or one massive camp cook trying to prove a point

Tie game here.

Ignition System

•  LXE: Standard push-button ignition
• LXX: Coleman’s InstaStart ignition system

Think of it like “click and pray” vs “click and it actually lights.”

Build & Materials

•  LXE: Classic RoadTrip build, durable but plain
• LXX: More premium touches – metal knobs, slightly beefier frame, better lid finish

Because aesthetics matter, even at a tailgate.

Weight

• LXE: ~44 lbs
• LXX: ~47 lbs

Three pounds isn’t a big deal unless you’re dragging it across a beach like a pack mule.

Price Range

Prices change constantly (thank you, internet), but typically:

• LXE: More budget-friendly
• LXX: Higher-priced, usually by $40–$80

Whether the extra money is worth it… that’s what the next sections are for.

Shared Features

Both have:

• Interchangeable cooktops
• Collapsible stand
• Rolling wheels
• Two-burner independent heat control
• Removable grease tray
• Cast-iron grates (porcelain-coated)

This is why people get confused – they look like twins until you fire them up.

Burner Performance – The Real Test of a Portable Grill

When it comes to portable grills, burner performance is where the pretenders tap out and the real contenders step up.

It doesn’t matter how pretty a grill looks or how many cupholders the stand has – if it can’t stay hot in the wind or reach searing temps, it’s basically a metal picnic table.

The LXE and LXX share a similar dual-burner layout, but they don’t behave the same once you start cooking. Let’s break it down pitmaster-style.

Heat Output: More BTUs, More Swagger

• LXE: 20,000 BTUs
• LXX: 22,000 BTUs

Now, 2,000 BTUs might not sound like much. It’s basically one enthusiastic birthday candle. But in real-life outdoor cooking – especially with wind, cold, or altitude – those extra BTUs give the LXX a slight edge in recovering heat after you lift the lid.

Think:

• Faster rebound temps
• Better sear consistency
• Less “why is this burger taking 25 minutes?” energy

Is it game-changing? If you’re cooking burgers by a lake in the summer – maybe not.

If you’re grilling steaks in January with a jealous wind trying to ruin your day – absolutely.

Flame Consistency: The Real Secret Sauce

This isn’t on the box, but it matters in the wild.

• LXE: Fairly stable flame, but wind can bully it easier.
• LXX: Tighter flame control, slightly stronger retention, fewer flare-ups caused by gusts.

On a still day, they’re equals.

On a breezy day, the LXX is like the friend who holds the flashlight correctly the first time.

Two-Zone Cooking: A Mandatory Feature

Both grills allow independent burner control, which is non-negotiable for proper grilling. If you’ve never drilled two-zone cooking into your brain, here’s the short version:

• One burner high → searing zone
• One burner low → indirect zone
• Lid closed → “mini convection oven” situation

Both LXE and LXX handle this beautifully.

Rotating wings? Check.

Bacon that won’t curl into a sad little tube? Check.

Sausage that doesn’t explode like a firecracker? Also check.

High Heat vs Low-and-Slow

This is where the personality splits:

LXE:

• Great for medium-high cooks
• Gets hot, stays reasonably hot
• Occasional struggle reaching that “aggressive sear” zone in cold weather

LXX:

• Hotter peak temps
• Faster warm-up time
• Better for cast-iron skillet use
• Handles thick steaks with more authority

If you love reverse-searing or cooking thick-cut meat outdoors, the LXX gives you more headroom. If you cook mostly burgers, dogs, chicken thighs, and camp meals – the LXE does the job without complaint.

Pitmaster Verdict on Burners

LXE: Reliable workhorse

LXX: Slightly upgraded performance for perfectionists

If burners are your main deciding factor, the LXX is the better battleground grill. But if you don’t chase maximum sear marks like a hobby, the LXE holds its own.

Cooking Surface & Real-World Capacity

On paper, both the LXX and LXE offer 285 square inches of cooking space. It’s the kind of spec that sounds like nothing until you start laying out food and realize, “Oh wow… this thing can handle a legit amount of chow.”

But capacity isn’t just about square inches. It’s about how that space behaves when real food hits real heat. Let’s unpack how each grill performs when it’s loaded up.

The 285 sq. in. Reality Check

Both grills can comfortably fit:

• 12–14 standard burgers
• 6 decent ribeye steaks
• 18 hotdogs (or more, if you’re stacking like a Jenga master
• 2½ racks of cut-up ribs
• A mountain of veggies that you will absolutely forget about until they almost burn

This puts them at the upper end of portable grills in general. You’re not dealing with a backpack-size burner – this is a grill with the confidence of a small backyard setup.

If you regularly feed 4–6 people, you’ll love the space.

If you’re running a 20-person tailgate… well… good luck, soldier.

Heat Distribution: The Hidden Difference

Even though the cooking surface is identical, the heat distribution isn’t.

LXE:

• Slightly more noticeable hotspots
• Corners run cooler (good for warming buns or resting food)
• Middle zones heat up nicely, but under a full load, recovery time isn’t the fastest

LXX:

• More even heat distribution
• Edges stay hotter than the LXE’s, meaning more usable real estate
• Under full load, rebounds from lid-open moments faster

On a normal day, they’ll both cook evenly enough to keep you sane. But if you’re the kind of pitmaster who spaces out burgers like you’re drafting blueprints, the LXX’s more balanced heat will put a smile on your face.

Grates & Plates: Cast Iron Wins Again

Both models use porcelain-coated cast-iron grates, which is the sweet spot for portable grills:

• They hold heat well
• They’re durable
• They give respectable grill marks
• They don’t rust easily if you clean them like an adult 

But the real gem of the RoadTrip system is the interchangeable cooktop plates.

Both LXE and LXX support:

• Grill grates
• Griddle plates
• Stove grates
• Wok plates
• Pizza stones
• Pan supports

Want to cook pancakes, smash burgers, stir-fry, or boil water?

Both grills let you Frankenstein your setup like a backyard cooking MacGyver.

This is one of the biggest reasons the RoadTrip line is popular with campers and tailgaters – it’s versatile without being fiddly.

Space for Combo Cooking

A sneaky advantage:

Both grills let you run griddle on one side, grill on the other.

This is where things get fun:

• Burgers + toasted buns
• Steak + sautéed mushrooms
• Hotdogs + grilled onions
• Breakfast bacon + pancakes
• Fish + veggies
• Smashburgers + tortillas

Portable grills rarely pull off dual cooking styles cleanly. These two do it like champs.

Real-World Cooking Example

Here’s how the two models behave with the same load:

Scenario:

Eight burgers + a pile of sliced onions on the griddle side.

LXE:

• Burgers cook fine but slightly slower
• Onions need a minute more to caramelize
• Heat dips noticeably each time you lift the lid
• Bottom line: It works, but you babysit it more

LXX:

• Burgers get a firmer sear
• Onions crisp up faster
• Lower recovery time between checks
• Bottom line: Feels closer to a backyard grill

Pitmaster Verdict on Cooking Surface

LXE: Plenty of room, good performance, slightly uneven heat

LXX: Same space, more usable due to better heat distribution

Both are impressive for portable grills, but the LXX squeezes a bit more performance out of the same square inches.

Build Quality & Portability – Strength, Weight, and the “Can I Move This Solo?” Test

When you’re dealing with portable grills, the build and portability matter almost as much as cooking performance. You want something solid – but not so solid that you need a gym membership to haul it from your truck bed to the picnic table.

Both the LXE and LXX fold, roll, and travel like champs, but they’re not identical once you get hands-on. Let’s break down how each one behaves in the real world, outside the marketing brochure.

Build Quality: “How Much Abuse Can It Take?”

Both grills are built on the classic RoadTrip backbone: a sturdy frame, cast-iron cooktops, and a burner box that can survive a couple of ungraceful tailgate tumbles. But the LXX does have a few upgrades that make it feel like the tougher sibling.

LXE Build Notes:

• Durable enough for regular use, but basic
• Plastic knobs, plastic side shelf mounts
• Slightly thinner lid construction
• Legs lock into place securely but can feel a bit springy over time

The LXE is that reliable old toolbox – you don’t brag about it, but it works.

LXX Build Notes:

• Upgraded control knobs
• Firmer, more stable legs
• Slightly thicker lid and stronger hinge assembly
• Better fit-and-finish overall
• Feels more “premium,” even though the design is nearly identical

The LXX just feels sturdier. Not heavier in a problematic way – just more confidence-inspiring when you’re grilling on uneven terrain or questionable picnic tables built during the Nixon administration.

Weight: Not a Back-Breaker, But Not Featherlight

• LXE: ~44 lbs
• LXX: ~47 lbs

Three pounds difference.

But the way they carry feels more distinct.

Why? Because the LXX’s frame balance is slightly better. It rolls smoother, feels less rattly, and handles bumps better thanks to the sturdier legs and tighter joints.

Both have rolling wheels, so you’re not bench-pressing either grill, but here’s the truth:Carrying either model up a flight of stairs is when you rethink life choices.

Portability: The RoadTrip Signature Move

Both grills shine here. Coleman nailed the portability formula years ago.

You get:

• A surprisingly fast fold/unfold mechanism
• Two big roller wheels
• A pull-handle that works like luggage
• A frame that collapses without tools
• A footprint that fits easily in:
  • SUVs
  • Trucks
  • Hatchbacks
  • Even compact cars if you play Tetris correctly

The collapsible design is so smooth that people who see one for the first time often go, “Wait – that folds up? Really?”

The LXX feels slightly more stable in rolling mode, especially on gravel, sand, or lumpy grass. But both are undeniably easy to transport.

Set-Up & Breakdown Time: The Practical Difference

A RoadTrip grill goes from folded to fully operational in under a minute once you get the hang of it.

LXE vs LXX:

• Set-up time: identical
• Folding speed: identical
• Stability once upright: LXX is better
• Leg wiggle: LXE may develop some after heavy use

If you cook a lot – camping, tailgating, RV life – the LXX’s stiffer frame keeps it feeling solid longer.

Durability Over Time

From a long-term pitmaster perspective:

• The LXE develops quirks sooner (loose hinges, softer knobs, minor wobble)
• The LXX holds its posture better and ages more gracefully

You don’t need white gloves to handle either grill – they’re made to be tossed into trunks and dragged across dirt – but the LXX just endures abuse with more dignity.

Pitmaster Verdict on Build & Portability

LXE:

Lightweight, durable enough, super portable, but feels more “basic Coleman.”

LXX:

Better materials, tighter construction, more stable, slightly smoother to roll and use.

If portability is your absolute priority, you’ll love either.

If you want the grill that handles the road like a rugged 4×4 instead of a compact sedan – the LXX wins.

Ignition System & Reliability – Because Nothing Kills a Mood Faster Than a Grill That Won’t Light

Nothing exposes a grill’s soul faster than ignition. When you’re hungry, the wind is picking up, and everyone’s staring at you like you’re the head chef of the universe, the last thing you need is a grill that plays hard-to-get.

This is one of the biggest practical differences between the LXX and the LXE, and it’s one most buyers underestimate.

LXE Ignition: The “Click and Pray” System

The RoadTrip LXE uses a standard push-button ignition – the classic little mechanical spark generator. It works most of the time. But “most of the time” is not what you want to hear when you’ve got raw chicken sitting out.

In perfect conditions, it lights quickly.

But introduce real-world factors like:

• Wind
• Dust
• Damp morning air
• A slightly dirty burner
• A worn spark wire
• A long weekend of tailgating

…and suddenly the LXE’s ignition can get moody.

You’ll eventually get it lit, but you may experience:

• Multiple clicks
• Adjusting fuel flow
• Repositioning the burner control
• A short moment of questioning your life choices

And yeah – sometimes you just have to do the classic “pitmaster matchstick reach” if the igniter goes out entirely.

LXX Ignition: The Much Better InstaStart System

The Coleman RoadTrip LXX uses InstaStart ignition, which is genuinely more reliable. It’s still a piezo-electric system, but it’s better shielded, better aligned, and sends a stronger, cleaner spark.

Here’s what you get in real use:

• Lights faster
• Lights more consistently
• Handles wind better
• Doesn’t require as much tinkering
• Rarely needs backup ignition
• Ages more gracefully than the LXE’s setup

I’ve lit the LXX in some pretty questionable conditions – 20 mph wind on a beach, cold nights in the mountains, a rainy parking lot – and it never hesitated.

It’s not bulletproof. No portable grill ignition is.

But compared to the LXE? It’s night and day.

Why This Matters More Than You Think

You’ll hear people say:

“Just use a lighter if it doesn’t start.”

 Sure. Easy fix.

But here’s the thing:

If you’re setting up camp, tailgating in a crowd, cooking at dawn, or standing in the middle of a windy field – you want your gear to work now, not after a survival mini-game.

Ignition reliability is the difference between:

Click → Fire → Grill time

vs

Click → Click → Click → Sigh → Lighter → Burnt knuckles → Regret

The LXX saves you time and frustration every single cook. That matters.

Maintenance Differences

Over time:

LXE Ignition

• More prone to misalignment
• Gets dirty faster
• Spark wire can loosen
• Sometimes weakens after months of heavy use

LXX Ignition

• Better sealed
• Less sensitive to soot and grease
• Lasts longer before needing any cleaning or adjustment

If you grill regularly, the LXX is simply less annoying.

Pitmaster Verdict on Ignition

LXE:

Not bad, but unreliable enough to notice. Good weather = good ignition. Bad weather = bring a lighter.

LXX:

Consistently reliable, faster, easier, and less fuss long term. One of the most meaningful upgrades over the LXE.

If ignition reliability is a priority – and it should be for any portable grill – this is an easy win for the LXX.

Fuel Efficiency & Cooking Control – Stretching Every Propane Bottle

For a portable grill, fuel efficiency isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s a sanity saver. There’s nothing worse than mid-grill realizing your 1-lb propane bottle is almost empty, especially if you’re halfway through searing a steak or grilling breakfast for a campsite full of hungry friends.

Both the LXE and LXX use standard 1-lb propane cylinders, but burner design, BTUs, and heat control affect how efficiently they use that fuel. Let’s break it down.

LXE Fuel Efficiency

The LXE has 20,000 BTUs, and while it’s slightly less powerful than the LXX, that can actually be a small advantage for some cooks:

• Burns fuel more slowly if you maintain medium heat
•  Less likely to overshoot temperature on small meals
• Works well for simmering, sautéing, or breakfast prep

However, there’s a catch: because heat recovery is slower, you may leave burners on longer to maintain proper cooking temps for thicker cuts of meat. That can make the LXE slightly less efficient in high-heat or fast-cook scenarios.

LXX Fuel Efficiency

The LXX has 22,000 BTUs, slightly higher output, and better heat distribution:

• Heats faster, so less time burning fuel to reach target temp
• Recovers heat faster after lid opens
• Provides more precise control with its improved burners

Even though it’s technically using more BTUs, the efficiency gains from faster searing and shorter recovery time can actually stretch propane bottles further in real-world cooking.

Independent Burner Control: A Must-Have

Both grills feature dual independent burners, which is critical for:

• Two-zone cooking (direct + indirect)
• Adjusting heat for different foods at the same time
• Preventing overcooked sides while searing steaks

Practical example:

• Laying down burgers on the right burner (high heat)
• Warming buns on the left burner (low heat)
• Lid closed, burgers cook evenly, buns don’t burn

Both LXE and LXX handle this equally well, but the LXX’s slightly stronger burners let you maintain zones more consistently in windy or cold conditions, which indirectly saves fuel because you’re not constantly adjusting knobs or burning extra gas to keep temps up.

Real-World Propane Life

With 1-lb cylinders:

• LXE: Typically gets 1–2 full meals before the bottle is empty, depending on heat settings
• LXX: Similar or slightly better due to faster heat recovery, even if it uses slightly more BTUs per minute

For casual tailgaters, campers, and day-trippers, both grills are perfectly serviceable. For longer sessions or heavier cooks, the LXX’s efficiency and temperature retention edge matters more.

Pitmaster Verdict on Fuel & Heat Control

LXE: Solid, simple, slightly slower recovery – good for leisurely cooking and small groups.

LXX: Slightly more powerful, faster recovery, maintains zones better, can stretch fuel in busy cooking sessions.

Bottom line: both are portable and practical, but the LXX’s design gives it a performance-to-fuel efficiency advantage, especially in more demanding conditions.

Accessories & Customization – Making It Your Grill

One of the biggest strengths of the Coleman RoadTrip series is its versatility.

These are not just portable grills – they’re modular cooking platforms. If you love tinkering, swapping plates, or making your grill feel “yours,” this is where both the LXE and LXX shine.

Interchangeable Cooktops

Both models support:

• Grill grates for classic sear marks
• Griddle plates for pancakes, bacon, or stir-fry
• Stove grates to boil water or cook pasta
• Pizza stones for the ultimate tailgate pizza
• Wok plates for campfire-style stir-fry

The real magic? You can swap these plates in seconds, without tools. You could sear a steak on one side while cooking eggs on the griddle, then switch to a pizza stone in less than five minutes.

For the pitmaster who likes variety, both LXE and LXX offer the same flexibility.

Side Shelves and Add-Ons

Both grills come with foldable side shelves, but here’s where there are subtle differences:

• LXE: Standard side shelves, light-duty
• LXX: Shelves feel sturdier, can hold heavier pans or utensils without wobbling

If you’re setting up a mini kitchen in the woods, this might not sound huge – but when juggling ingredients, sauces, tongs, and spatulas, it matters.

Other optional add-ons include:

• Carrying cases
• Travel covers
• Grill grates with extra coating
• Smoker boxes (for wood chips)

All RoadTrip grills share these accessories, so you’re not limited to what comes in the box.

Customization Potential

One of the unsung advantages of these grills is how adaptable they are:

• Adjusting burner zones
• Mixing griddle + grill
• Adding a small pan for sauces
• Using a cast-iron skillet for a “campfire skillet” breakfast

The LXE lets you do this fine. The LXX just feels more robust when you’re pushing the grill into more creative setups. Think of it like building IKEA furniture: both build, but one feels sturdier under stress.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Accessories are only good if you can clean them. Both models:

• Have removable grease trays
• Use porcelain-coated cast iron, which wipes down reasonably easily
• Support dishwasher-safe griddle and grates (depending on plate type)

The LXX’s slightly better finishing makes cleaning feel smoother and less prone to stubborn grease sticking in tiny nooks. Minor, yes – but appreciated after a long day of grilling.

Pitmaster Verdict on Accessories & Customization

LXE: Flexible and modular, perfect for standard meals, breakfast setups, and basic dual-cooking.

LXX: Same flexibility, slightly more durable, supports heavier pans and multi-tasking without feeling wobbly or cheap.

If you love experimenting or cooking multiple dishes at once, the LXX will make your life a little easier. But for straightforward grilling, LXE keeps it simple and effective.

Price & Value – Are You Paying for Performance or Prestige?

When choosing between the Coleman RoadTrip LXE and LXX, price often becomes the deciding factor.

On paper, the LXE is the “budget-friendly” model, while the LXX sits a bit higher. But the question every pitmaster asks is: Are you paying for actual performance or just bells and whistles?

Typical Price Range

• LXE: Usually in the $250–$300 range
• LXX: Usually in the $300–$380 range

That’s a $40–$80 difference depending on sales, retailers, or seasonal discounts.

What You Get for the Extra Cash

Here’s where the LXX justifies its higher price:

So yes – you are paying for measurable upgrades, not just a fancy sticker.

Value Perspective

Think of it like this:

• LXE: Great for casual campers, tailgaters, and those who grill moderately. It gives you solid performance at a lower upfront cost.
• LXX: Better for dedicated grillers, heavy cooks, or anyone who values faster searing, sturdier build, and hassle-free ignition. 

Over time, the convenience and durability may actually save you money on replacements or frustration.

Resale and Longevity

Another hidden value factor: resale.

• LXX tends to hold resale value slightly better because collectors, weekend warriors, and serious campers appreciate the upgraded features.
• LXE is perfectly functional but may depreciate faster as newer models come out.

The True Pitmaster Question

Ask yourself:

• Do I grill occasionally or daily?
• Do I care about ignition reliability in windy conditions?
• Am I willing to pay a bit more for slightly better heat distribution, sturdier construction, and smoother mobility?

If the answer is yes, the LXX is worth the premium. If no, the LXE is a reliable, wallet-friendly workhorse.

Pitmaster Verdict on Price & Value

LXE: Lower upfront cost, solid performance, perfect for casual use.

LXX: Slightly higher cost, but meaningful upgrades make it worth it for serious or frequent grilling.

Value is in real-world performance, not just the label price. And in this matchup, the LXX wins on efficiency, reliability, and overall pitmaster satisfaction – but the LXE still delivers excellent bang for your buck.

Pros and Cons – Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Sometimes, after reading 2,000 words of analysis, you just want a quick, no-nonsense reference. Here’s the breakdown for the Coleman RoadTrip LXE vs LXX.

Coleman RoadTrip LXE – Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Affordable, budget-friendly price
• Reliable for casual and moderate grilling
• Interchangeable cooktops (griddle, grill, stove)
• Lightweight and highly portable
• Two-zone burners for indirect/direct cooking
• Easy setup and fold-down system

Cons:

• Standard ignition can be finicky in wind or cold
• Slower heat recovery compared to LXX
• Slightly less durable build over time
• Side shelves and knobs feel lighter
• Heat distribution has minor hotspots

Best For: Casual campers, tailgaters, small family meals, first-time portable grill buyers.

Coleman RoadTrip LXX – Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Higher BTU output → faster heating, better sear
• InstaStart ignition → more reliable under all conditions
• Better build quality → thicker lid, sturdier legs, premium knobs
• More even heat distribution → more usable cooking surface
• Improved side shelf stability → supports heavier pans
• Ages better over long-term use

Cons:

• Slightly heavier (~3 lbs)
• Higher price tag ($40–$80 more than LXE)
• Overkill for small or casual grilling sessions

Best For: Frequent grillers, serious tailgaters, campsite chefs, anyone who wants convenience + reliability + durability.

Quick Takeaways

• LXE = Workhorse, dependable, great value
• LXX = Upgraded, more reliable, better performance, premium feel

Think of it like this: the LXE is the reliable truck that gets you there; the LXX is the upgraded truck with better suspension, faster engine, and fewer rattles along the way.

Final Verdict – Which Coleman RoadTrip Grill Should You Buy?

After walking through burners, heat distribution, cooking space, portability, ignition, fuel efficiency, accessories, and price, it’s time to answer the big question: LXX or LXE?

Here’s the pitmaster’s straight talk.

When to Buy the LXE

Choose the LXE if you:

• Grill occasionally – weekends or short camping trips
•  Cook smaller meals or meals that don’t require precise temperature control
• Want solid performance at a lower price
• Don’t care much about the extra BTUs or InstaStart ignition
• Prefer a lightweight, portable grill for easier transport

The LXE is a dependable, no-frills option. It does everything a casual griller needs without breaking the bank. Think of it as the “classic road-trip companion” – solid, familiar, and never lets you down unless conditions get extreme.

When to Buy the LXX

Choose the LXX if you:

• Grill frequently or for larger groups
• Value quick searing, even heat, and fast recovery
• Want reliable ignition in wind, cold, or unpredictable weather
• Like premium touches, sturdier legs, and a grill that ages well
• Appreciate extra versatility when using multiple cooktops simultaneously

The LXX is the serious portable grill. It’s slightly heavier and more expensive, but you get performance, reliability, and longevity that make it worth it for anyone who treats grilling like a craft.

Pitmaster Bottom Line

• LXE: Perfect for casual, budget-conscious grillers who want simplicity and portability.
• LXX: Best for serious, frequent grillers who want better heat control, durability, and hassle-free ignition.

If you only grill once or twice a year, LXE is plenty. If you live for the sizzle, the sear, and the smell of perfect burgers outdoors, the LXX is the clear choice.

The Best Portable Grill is One That Suits Your Needs

Both grills are excellent examples of Coleman’s RoadTrip line philosophy: portable, versatile, and capable of real-world cooking outside your backyard. The real difference comes down to how serious you are about outdoor grilling and how much convenience you’re willing to pay for.

Remember: portable grills aren’t just about food – they’re about freedom. You can camp anywhere, tailgate like a champion, or cook under the stars. With either model, you get that freedom.

• LXE: Reliable, straightforward freedom
• LXX: Premium, high-performance freedom 

No matter your choice, Coleman delivers a portable grill that can actually grill, which is more than can be said for half the plastic toys out there.