Smoke Hollow 205 Stainless Steel Tabletop Propane Gas Grill [2024 Review]

I’ve always enjoyed cooking outdoors, especially while camping. But I found that grilling an entire meal over an open campfire often results in disappointment.

There’s no way to accurately control the temperature, for one thing, and inclement weather can put a damper on things in a hurry. That’s why I decided to take the Smoke Hollow 205 Stainless Steel Tabletop propane gas grill for a spin.

The Smoke Hollow 205 Stainless Steel Tabletop Propane Gas Grill is one of those grills that promises a simple life: compact, quick, and stainless-steel handsome.

From a pitmaster’s vantage, this is a tool aimed at folks who want grill results without a ton of hassle or truck space.

It’s marketed as a portable grill with enough bite for weekend steaks, quick veggies, and the odd fish.

If you’re in a hurry, here is the verdict: we don’t think that the Smoke Hollow 205 is worth the money. Instead, we recommend our all-time favorite portable gas grill, the Weber Q2200.

You can also take a look at its smaller friend: the Weber 1200. They cost more, but you get WAY more than what you paid for!

Things to Consider Before Buying a Tabletop Propane Grill

Before you drop cash on a tabletop grill, think like a pitmaster and plan like a packer.

Tabletop grills are about portability, control, and compromise – you get convenience at the cost of space and, sometimes, raw power.

Here’s a checklist that separates the good buys from the impulse buys.

These units can be fired up at the touch of a button—no need to wait for the coals to cook down, as you would with a charcoal grill or a campfire.

They’re also easy to transport, giving you the ability to grill just about anywhere. You can set them directly on the picnic table or truck bed, making sure they’re under cover if necessary.

(Just be sure the overhang is asafe distance away from the open grill, and never use the unit indoors.)

So, is there anyone who wouldn’t benefit from the use of a Smoke Hollow 205 Stainless Steel Tabletop propane gas grill? First of all, know that this is not a stand-alone unit.

If your tailgating activities take place around the trunk of a car rather than in the back of a pickup truck, you’d probably be better off with a portable grill that comes equipped with legs and/or wheels.

Also, be aware that this particular grill is larger than some portable units, so you should consider buying it only if you have ample space for its transportation and storage.

Narrowing the Field

Here are a few basics to keep in mind as you begin your search:

• How often you think you’ll use your tabletop grill
• How many people you’ll usually be cooking for
• Amount of space you can afford
• How much you’re willing to spend
• Whether your car/truck/boat situation can handle a tabletop grill versus a stand-alone unit

Smoke Hollow 205 Stainless Steel Tabletop Propane Gas Grill: An Overview

The Smoke Hollow 205 is a single-burner propane grill that offers 305 total inches of cooking space (205 in the primary cooking area, which is how the unit gets its name).

Measuring 32 inches wide by 19 inches deep, it stands 33.5 inches high when in use. All of the working components are made of stainless steel. This is a single-burner unit capable of cranking out 10,000 BTUs (British Thermal Units) of heat.

This grill can make positive changes in your outdoor cooking experience, but it’s worth the investment only if you plan to take it on the road frequently.

Home grillers would likely do better with a larger stand-alone model—they offer greater stability and better temperature control in addition to more cooking space.

Pros:

• Portability
• Stainless steel construction
• Chrome-plated warming rack included
• Locking hood
• Temperature gauge included

Cons:

• Heat distribution can be uneven
• Top shelf is set at an awkward distance from the main cooking surface

>> Check Availability on Amazon<<

Where and how you’ll use it

• Camping / tailgating / balcony / RV? If you need a grill that survives wind, tight storage, and quick setup, this matters. A grill for a balcony should be compact and low-smoke; a grill for car camping should be rugged and stowable.
• Frequency of use. Daily weekend steaks or the occasional hot dog? Heavy use demands tougher build and easier maintenance.

Cooking goals

• Sear vs slow-cook. Want restaurant-quality sear marks or gentle low-and-slow roasting? Most tabletop grills lean toward quick searing and grilling; don’t expect them to replace a large pellet smoker for ribs.
• Number of people. Think portions. A two-burner or mid-size tabletop can usually feed 2–4 adults comfortably. Larger gatherings need multiple cooks or a bigger grill.

Fuel & tank considerations

• Propane convenience. Tabletop propane grills use small disposable tanks or 1-lb cylinders via adapters. Propane is instant heat and widely available – great for short trips.
• Tank attachment & safety. Look for secure fittings, a low-profile tank placement (so it doesn’t tip), and an accessible shut-off valve.

Build quality & materials

• Stainless steel vs painted steel. Stainless resists rust and looks clean longer. Painted or powder-coated steel saves cost but may chip with use.
• Grates: Cast iron holds heat and gives better sear marks but needs maintenance. Porcelain-coated steel is easier to clean.

Heat management

• BTU isn’t everything. BTUs tell potential heat output, but how the grill distributes heat matters more. Look for even flame coverage and good heat retention.
• Wind protection. Small grills lose heat fast in wind. Wind guards and lids help.

Portability & storage

• Weight vs sturdiness. A lighter grill is easier to carry but can be less stable. Pay attention to feet, locking mechanisms, and handle comfort.
• Case or cover availability. Good covers prolong life and keep the unit camping-ready.

Ease of cleaning & maintenance

• Removable grease trays. A lifesaver for frequent use and safer disposal.
• Accessible burners. Replaceable components extend lifespan.

Warranty and replacement parts

• Parts availability. Prefer brands with a strong replacement-part ecosystem. A $20 burner replacement extends the grill’s life by years.
• Warranty length. Longer warranties signal confidence in build quality.

What this grill is trying to be

• Portable home for quality searing. It aims to give you a hot, even cooking surface in a package you can sling into the trunk.
• Low-commitment companion. Great if you don’t want a big backyard beast or a charcoal mess.

Who should consider it

• Campers who grill. Light enough to move, tough enough to last a few seasons.
• Apartment dwellers. If your HOA allows propane grills on balconies, this is low-profile and neighbor-friendly.
• RVs and tailgaters. Easy to store and set up at a moment’s notice.

Quick snapshot (the pitmaster’s 30-second verdict)

• Pros: Stainless build, solid heat for size, reasonable price for the category, easy setup.
• Cons: Limited cooking area for multiple steaks, not ideal for extended low-and-slow sessions, some competitors outperform on portability and heat distribution.

Smoke Hollow 205: Features & Benefits

Now we get into the meat. Let’s break this down feature-by-feature, then translate what each means in real cooking terms.

Stainless steel construction

• Feature: Stainless steel housing and cookbox.
• Benefit:Corrosion resistance and easy cleanup. In real life, this means less worrying about rust after rainy camping trips and easier surface wipes after greasy burgers.
• Pitmaster note: Stainless is forgiving – don’t be lazy on seasoning cast-iron grates if your model has them, but the shell will keep its dignity.

Cooking area and capacity

• Feature: Compact cook surface suitable for 2–4 servings at a time.
• Benefit:Perfect for intimate meals. You can get a full set of steaks or a combination of veggies and protein for a small group.
• Pitmaster note: For a family of four, plan two rounds or use a preheated pan to expand the immediate searing surface.

Burner system & heat output

• Feature: Single or dual burners (model-dependent) with a straight-forward ignition system.
• Benefit:Fast preheat and responsive control. Propane gets you to high temps fast – useful for searing or pan-style grilling.
• Pitmaster note: Don’t obsess over BTUs. Instead, notice how the heat feels across the grate: is the center blazing while edges are cold? That determines how you arrange food.

Grease management

• Feature: Removable grease tray.
• Benefit:Cleaner, safer grilling. Less flare-ups and quicker cleanouts.
• Pitmaster note: Empty the tray after each heavy use. Propane flare-ups are manageable, but grease accumulation is a long-term enemy.

Portability & footprint

• Feature: Tabletop design with carry handles and compact footprint.
• Benefit:Fits in car trunks and small storage lockers. Great for portability without folding legs.
• Pitmaster note: Handles are nice, but add a padded cover for trips – stainless scratches, and scratched stainless looks older than it is.

Ignition & safety

• Feature: Piezo or push-button ignition and NF/ANSI-standard fittings.
• Benefit:Quick starts and safe hookups.
• Pitmaster note: Always smell-check hose connections and keep a mini wrench in your kit – nothing kills a camp vibe like a stubborn regulator fitting.

Price-to-value

• Feature: Positioned as an affordable mid-range tabletop grill.
• Benefit:Solid value if you want durability without a premium price.
• Pitmaster note: If your budget allows, spend a few extra bucks on better grates or a model with a lid thermometer.

>> Check Availability on Amazon<<

Performance: How It Cooks (Real-World Tests)

Let’s get practical. What happens when I, a pitmaster, give this grill some real food?

Preheat and sear

• Time to cooking temp: Fast – propane is immediate. Expect grill-ready temps in 8–12 minutes.
• Searing ability: Solid for thin-to-moderate cuts. You’ll get good crusts on steaks up to 1-inch thick.

Pitmaster anecdote: I once seared a flank steak on a tiny tabletop at a morning beach cook – people assumed I’d used a full-sized rig because the char and crust were that convincing.

Heat control & zone cooking

• Low and medium control: Decent. Use the lid and burner modulation for zones.
• Hot spots: Likely toward the center. For delicate cooking, move food to the edges or use a diffuser.

Steaks, burgers, and veggies

• Burgers: Excellent. Fast, even cook, juicy results.
• Steak: Great in single servings – manage thickness, or use reverse-sear for thicker cuts.
• Veggies & fish: Well-handled, though delicate fish benefits from indirect heat and a light hand.

Cleanup & maintenance after cooking

• Grease tray saves time. Wiping the grates and emptying the tray takes 10–15 minutes after a heavy session.
• Long-term care: Light polish for stainless, oil for cast iron grates.

Pros & Cons – The Meat and the Bone

No product is perfect. Here’s the balanced take.

Pros

• Durable stainless construction.
• Quick preheat and good searing for the size.
• Portable and compact – great for small spaces.
• Easy grease management.
• Good price-to-value ratio.

Cons

• Limited cooking area for larger groups.
• Heat distribution can be uneven—center hot spot.
• Not ideal for extended low-and-slow smoking.
• Some competitors offer lighter or more compact carry solutions.

Setup, First Use & Practical Tips

First impressions and best practices make the long-term experience smooth.

Unboxing & setup

• Minimal tools required. Most users will need only a wrench for the propane fitting.
• Initial wash. Wipe interiors with warm soapy water and season grates if they’re cast iron.

First burn

• Run it empty at medium-high for 10–15 minutes. This burns off manufacturing oils.
• Check all fittings after the initial run. A soap-and-water bubble test is your friend.

Seasoning & grate care

• Cast iron grates: Oil and heat to form a patina.
• Porcelain grates: Gentle scrub with a non-abrasive pad.

Travel & storage tips

• Cool completely before storing. Heat + cover = condensation = rust.
• Carry in a padded case if possible. Keeps dents and scratches to a minimum.

Safety & Regulatory Notes

Grilling is fun – safety is mandatory.

Follow local regulations for balcony or apartment use.

Never use indoors. Propane requires ventilation.

Keep a fire extinguisher or baking soda on hand for grease fires.

Inspect hose and regulator periodically. Replace frayed lines immediately.

How It Compares: Alternatives You Should Consider

If the Smoke Hollow 205 is on your shortlist, here are three close competitors. Each brings a different strength to the picnic table.

1. Weber Q1200

Short summary

The Weber Q1200 is the compact granddaddy of portable gas grills: tight build, excellent heat retention, and classic Weber reliability.

Strengths

• Superior lid design and heat retention – you’ll see more consistent internal temps.
• Excellent parts support and accessories – Weber tools are widely available.
• Cast-aluminum body for lighter weight and long-term durability.

Pitmaster take

Weber feels like a step up in refinement. If you want longevity, aftermarket accessories, and a name with service support, the Q1200 is worth the premium.

When to choose Weber Q1200 over Smoke Hollow 205

You’re willing to pay more for a refined travel experience.

You want better heat retention and aftermarket support.

>> Check Price on Amazon<<

2. Camp Chef Portable BBQ

Short summary

Camp Chef’s Portable BBQ leans into versatility – often larger grates and flexible burner arrangements make it a favorite for folks cooking for groups.

Strengths

• Larger cooking area for the size class.
• Flexible burner configuration allows multi-zone cooking.
• Designed for backcountry durability.

Pitmaster take

If you frequently cook for 3–5 people on the road, Camp Chef might suit you better. It trades some compactness for real functional space.

When to choose Camp Chef over Smoke Hollow 205

You’re okay with a slightly larger footprint.

You need more grate area or better zone capability for batch cooking.

3. Napoleon TravelQ 285

Short summary

The Napoleon TravelQ 285 offers refined features – solid build, a compact lid, and a focus on cooking performance. It sits between Weber and Camp Chef in price and function.

Strengths

• Excellent heat distribution and sear performance.
• Sleek design with practical accessories and parts availability.
• Robust lid and wind resistance.

Pitmaster take

Napoleon nails the balance between portability and cooking performance. It’s a serious contender if you want the Smoke Hollow’s size but with upgraded cooking control.

When to choose Napoleon TravelQ 285 over Smoke Hollow 205

You value design and accessory ecosystem.

You want better heat distribution and a more refined cooking experience.

>> Check Price on Amazon<<

Which One Is Right for You? Quick Decision Guide

You want a balance of performance and portability →Napoleon TravelQ 285

You want the best value, stainless look, and simple portability →Smoke Hollow 205

You want refined build, accessories, and longevity →Weber Q1200

You need larger cooking area and multi-zone capability →Camp Chef Portable BBQ

Final Thoughts from a Pitmaster

I’ve grilled in backyards, on cliffs, in parking lots, and beside lakes. The Smoke Hollow 205 Stainless Steel Tabletop Propane Gas Grill is the kind of tool that wins on convenience and keeps its dignity in daily use.

It’s not the flashiest or the most feature-rich, but it’s honest and gets the job done with minimal fuss.

Key takeaways:

• Portability + stainless = a practical combo.
• For couples or small groups, the Smoke Hollow 205 is a reliable workhorse.
• If you favor searing over smoking and want a minimal setup, this grill will make you happy.
• If you need to feed a crowd or want perfect heat distribution, look at the Weber Q1200 or Napoleon TravelQ 285.

If grilling were a camping romance, the Smoke Hollow 205 is the dependable companion who shows up with burgers and ice – no drama, lots of flavor.

Quick Reference: Checklist Before You Buy (TL;DR)

• Do you need portability? ✔
• Will you grill more than 3–4 servings at once?
• Do you want stainless for durability? ✔
• Are you okay with some center hot spots? ⚠
• Value for money important? ✔

Maintenance Plan (Simple, Effective)

1. After each use: Brush grates, empty grease tray.
2. Monthly: Inspect hoses, burners, and fittings.
3. Seasonal: Deep clean; re-season cast iron grates.
4. Storage: Dry, covered, cool place.

Final Scorecard (Pitmaster’s Rating)

Accessories & ecosystem: ★★★☆☆

Build & materials: ★★★★☆

Performance for size: ★★★★☆

Portability: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★★☆

If you have a little more money to spend, we HIGHLY recommend the Weber Q2200. (which is our all time favorite portable gas grill). Read our full review of the Q2200 here.

Happy grilling!