Are you a camping enthusiast who’s looking to expand your menu beyond the simple hot dog on a stick? Or perhaps you’re a football fan who enjoys throwing tailgate parties before kickoff at the local stadium. Either way, this breakdown of the Coleman Roadtrip LXX vs LXE should be of interest to you.
In this article, we’re going to compare the following 2 products:
Things to Consider Before Buying a Coleman Roadtrip Grill
If you’ve already begun doing your research, you might have noticed that the Coleman Roadtrip series features two models: The LXX and the LXE. Both are portable gas grills, well-suited for anyone who likes to cook outdoors and would appreciate the opportunity to take their skills beyond the backyard. In this guide, we’ll take you through the specifics of each model, complete with lists of pros and cons, so you’ll have a better idea of which one might best suit your needs.
Is there anyone who shouldn’t consider investing in one of these units? If you don’t travel often and are simply looking for an affordable gas grill with decent cooking power, you should consider looking elsewhere. The Roadtrip models were built specifically for travel, as the name suggests. Key features, such as their portability and “lift and lock” wheel systems, would be wasted on the backyard griller. In addition, they don’t feature as much cooking space as most home chefs would prefer. These shoppers would do better to choose another gas-powered unit or picnic grill from Coleman’s extensive list of products.
If you do feel that a portable grill is just the ticket, here are some of the questions you should ask yourself before making a purchase:
- What size grill would work best for what I have in mind?
- How much grilling power do I need?
- Which is more important: portability or performance?
- Am I likely to need or use any additional features (such as hooks for tools, or shelves for additional work space)?
Coleman Roadtrip LXX: An Overview
The Coleman Roadtrip LXX features 285 square inches of cooking space on a sturdy cast-iron surface. Also included is an adjustable thermostat to help you maintain the 22,000 BTUs (British thermal units) of power that the grill is capable of cranking out. Other features include a series of steel hooks for hanging tools, two stainless steel side shelves, and matchless lighting. An earlier version, the Roadtrip LX, offered similar grilling benefits but lacked maneuverability; the upgraded models also offer more storage space.
Pros:
- Portability
- Cranks a lot of heat
- Included thermometer that provides accurate results
- Quality accessories
Cons:
- Handle is poorly made compared to the rest of the unit, falls off if not handled with care
- Customer service isn’t always responsive if there’s a problem
- Gets very hot very fast—users must proceed with caution
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Coleman Roadtrip LXE: An Overview
The LXE is similar to the LXX in many ways: Both are very lightweight and portable, and take only moments to set up. The LXE also features 285 square inches of cooking space and a matchless ignition system for instant lighting. However, there are a few key differences. First of all, the LXE has only 20,000 BTUs of power—something that might not matter much to casual grillers, but if you’re a die-hard like myself, you’re sure to notice the difference. Also, the side tables and storage hooks on the LXE are made of plastic rather than stainless steel. Finally (and most crucially), the LXE doesn’t come with its own adjustable thermostat.
Pros:
- Matchless lighting
- Three heat settings
- Ample space for storage and accessories
- Sets up easily
Cons:
- Plastic accessories might be prone to easy breakage
- Flame is susceptible to blowing out in high winds
- Registering the product for the offered warranty can be problematic
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Coleman Roadtrip LXX vs LXE: Features & Benefits
In this section, we’ll offer detailed analyses of the key features on both of the current Roadtrip models. This will help you determine which of these grills is more likely to fulfill your on-the-go grilling needs.
#1 Roadtrip LXX
Storage and Setup
The Roadtrip LXX has a collapsible design that allows it to fit neatly in the trunk of your car, in the truck bed, or inside the cab of your RV. (Just don’t be tempted to use it indoors, no matter how handy that might seem—using a gas grill inside could lead to injury or asphyxiation due to carbon monoxide poisoning).
To set up the LXX grill for use, all you need to do is grasp the metal handle while keeping your foot on the larger plastic tow handle, then lift until the unit is fully extended. The grill will lock into place when the leg extensions slide into the brackets located on the bottom of the stand. After that, the side tables will swing out easily. Once your propane unit is securely attached (a 16.4-ounce cylinder is the best fit), you’re ready to light the grill.
Lighting System
The Coleman’s “Instastart” system allows you to turn on the grill at the push of a button. This is a useful feature, because it means the flame will light anytime and anywhere. You’re spared the hassle of bringing along a supply of matches—and keeping them dry, which can be an even greater hassle.
Heating Element
This grill offers 22,000 BTUs of heat, which provides a sufficient grilling environment for up to four people. It heats up very quickly, too, a desirable feature when you’re tailgating or just plain hungry. The durable cast-iron grill top can be swapped out for a griddle or oven surface (note that these alternate cooktops are sold separately).
Maneuverability
When Coleman decided to upgrade their Roadtrip LX grill, they added one key element that increased the versatility of their product: A set of wheels. This allows you to move the grill from one side of the campsite to the other—or across the parking lot to meet up with fellow tailgaters. They’re an invaluable addition, and one that you’re likely to be thankful for—especially if you’ve ever used one of the earlier, stationary models.
Care
Since the LXX is capable of heating to a high temperature in a short period of time, cleanup is remarkably easy. I would, however, advise removing the grilling elements and making sure they’re free of debris before using the unit again. It’s true that cast iron can take a lot of punishment, but it’s always better to be proactive when it comes to cleanup—your grill will last longer.
Additional Features
In addition to its stainless-steel side shelves and handy hooks for tool storage, the LXX offers an adjustable thermostat—another component that its earlier counterpart lacked. Finally, it should be noted that the Coleman Roadtrip LXX is only available in black, so if you’re looking for an eye-catching grill in a flashy designer color, you might be better off with the LXE.
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#2 Roadtrip LXE
Storage and Setup
The storage and setup of the Roadtrip LXE are virtually identical to the LXX. The only difference you might notice is a slight decrease in weight, as many of the additional components of the LXE are made of plastic rather than stainless steel.
Lighting System
Like the LXX, the LXE offers an “Instastart” matchless lighting system. In addition to being portable, the grill can start cooking your food mere minutes after you’ve set it up.
Heating Element
The LXE is capable of cranking out 20,000 BTUs of heat—sufficient for parties of up to four people, but slightly lower than the 22,000 offered by the LXX. This means that if you’re hoping to turn out continuous batches of food for larger parties, the LXX will probably be a better fit. Otherwise, the two grills are practically interchangeable on this score. On a similar note, the LXE’s grilling element can also be switched out for the oven or griddle cooktops.
Maneuverability
This upgraded Roadtrip model also features a set of two wheels that allow you to easily maneuver the grill to your desired spot. Note that you should never do so while the grill is lit—turn off the ignition and allow it to cool down slightly if you’re hoping to move from one spot to another. Thanks to the instant lighting system and the grill’s ability to heat up quickly, you’ll be able to start cooking again in no time.
Care
It’s important to note that the burners on the LXE are not covered, meaning that grease from food can drip down and cause flare-ups. The grease stains alone would be cause for concern, but this phenomenon can also create a great deal of blackening, which can be difficult to remove.
Additional Features
The Coleman Roadtrip LXE comes with two cast iron grill grates, as well as plastic hooks and side tables for additional storage. While it lacks the extra sturdiness and the built-in thermometer of the LXX, it’s a portable, no-frills option that should more than satisfy a small family’s grilling needs.
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Coleman Roadtrip LXX vs LXE: Road Test
Now that you’ve learned more about the individual features of both grills in our standoff, you might be wondering: How do they stack up against one another in the field?
I wondered the same thing, so I scoured the internet to see if I could find any testimonials from satisfied customers. It didn’t take me long to find what I was looking for, which is probably a good sign. Here’s the rundown on what consumers had to say about the Coleman Roadtrip series.
LXX
On the whole, users reported that they were satisfied with the overall performance of the Roadtrip LXX. Most claimed that the burners heat up quickly—so quickly, in fact, that it came as a surprise to some of the reviewers. The accuracy of the built-in thermometer was mentioned several times as well.
LXE
Customers seemed to be happy with the LXE as well. One or two users reported that the unit is easier to clean if you line the area around the burners with aluminum foil, and that some of the plastic components are prone to breakage (note that these may be covered under the limited warranty). Otherwise, the feedback was mainly positive.
Verdict
So, which Roadtrip grill wins the roundup: The LXX or the LXE?
The truth is, I don’t think you’ll find much to complain about with either option. Both grills deliver as promised, with minor and usually fixable exceptions. If I had to choose, though, I’d give the edge to the Roadtrip LXX. The built-in thermometer is invaluable, and the grill gives you that extra boost of heat for those times when a quick turnaround is essential. It also helps that the bonus components, such as the side shelving and the storage hooks, are made of stainless steel rather than plastic—they can bear more weight and are bound to last longer, which will make the grill pay for itself that much faster.
I hope this breakdown has brought you the answers you were searching for, and helped you come to an informed decision on your next grill purchase. Thanks for reading, and happy trails!
