Napoleon TravelQ 240 vs 285: A Portable Grill Showdown

Portable grills have changed the way I cook outdoors. Whether it’s a quick backyard dinner, a day at the beach, or an RV trip across state lines, I rely on a compact yet powerful grill to deliver full-size flavor without the hassle of a permanent setup.

Over the past few weeks, I tested two Napoleon favorites side by side—the TravelQ 240 (propane) and the TravelQ 285 (electric)—to see which one truly deserves a spot on your next adventure. What I discovered is that both grills carry Napoleon’s signature build quality but cater to very different needs.

Key Difference Between Napoleon TravelQ 240 vs 285 Portable Grill

The standout difference is fuel and power.

• TravelQ 240 runs on propane, pumping out 9,000 BTUs of searing heat with that unmistakable flame-kissed taste.
• TravelQ 285 is an electric grill delivering 1,500 watts of steady heat across a slightly larger 285 sq in surface, perfect where open flames aren’t allowed or when plugging into an outlet is easier than hauling a gas cylinder.

If you love that smoky gas-grilled flavor and cook where propane is welcome, the 240 has the edge. If you camp in spots with fire restrictions or live in an apartment with strict rules, the 285’s electric setup is a game changer.

Quick Comparison Table: Napoleon TravelQ 240 vs 285 Portable Grill

Feature	Napoleon TravelQ 240	Napoleon TravelQ 285 (PRO285E)
Fuel Type	Propane (16.4 oz cylinder or adapter for 20 lb)	Electric, 1500 W, 110–120 V
Cooking Area	240 sq in	285 sq in
Heat Output	9,000 BTU stainless-steel burner	1500 W heating element
Ignition / Start	Jetfire failsafe push-button ignition	Plug-in electric with control knob
Grates	Porcelainized cast-iron WAVE grids	Porcelainized cast-iron grids
Temperature Monitoring	User-controlled burner	Integrated Accu-Probe temperature gauge
Dimensions (approx.)	37″D × 66″W × 37″H	18.5″D × 29″W × 14.75″H
Portability	Collapsible legs, removable grease tray	Compact tabletop style, lightweight
Check Price & Deals	Buy on Amazon	Buy on Amazon

Detailed Comparative Review

I approached these two grills with the same menu—burgers, marinated chicken, and a tray of vegetables—to see how each handled a typical weekend cookout.

Design & Build

The TravelQ 240 immediately grabs attention with its bold blue finish and taller, collapsible legs. It feels like a “mini backyard grill” that happens to fold down for travel. The porcelainized cast-iron WAVE grids not only look sharp but hold heat beautifully, producing those textbook sear marks.

By contrast, the TravelQ 285 opts for a low-profile black body and a cast-aluminum lid. It’s sleeker and more compact—more like a premium countertop appliance that happens to work outdoors. The built-in Accu-Probe thermometer is a thoughtful touch for electric cooking.

Setup & Portability

Getting the 240 ready was a matter of screwing in a propane cylinder and hitting the Jetfire ignition. The burner lit instantly every single time. Its collapsible legs fold flat, but the overall footprint is still bigger than the 285, so plan for a bit more trunk space.

The 285 couldn’t be simpler: plug it in, twist the dial, and wait a few minutes for preheat. No tanks, no flames. Its smaller, lighter frame makes it the easier of the two to stash in a car or carry into an apartment balcony.

Heating Performance

Propane power is where the TravelQ 240 shines. The 9,000 BTUs brought the grate to searing temperature quickly and kept it there even as I loaded it with steaks. Searing and caramelizing came naturally, and the flavor had that authentic char I associate with gas grilling.

The TravelQ 285 surprised me. Its 1,500-watt element heated evenly and maintained a steady 500°F on the lid thermometer. While it lacks the aggressive flame-sear of propane, it produced beautiful grill marks and juicy burgers without any flare-ups. For condos or campsites with open-flame bans, that consistency is a big win.

Ease of Use & Cleanup

Both units share Napoleon’s removable drip tray design, making cleanup quick. The 240’s larger firebox is easy to access, while the 285’s smooth electric element wipes down effortlessly. If you dislike dealing with fuel tanks and flare-ups, the 285 is virtually stress-free.

Versatility

The 240 lets you dial from low to high for everything from veggies to thick ribeyes, and you can use an adapter hose to connect a full-size propane tank for long cooks. The 285 is perfect for patios, RV parks, or anywhere an electrical outlet beats carrying gas. It’s also ideal in locations with seasonal burn restrictions.

Napoleon TravelQ 240 Portable Propane Grill

Pros:

• Real gas-grilled flavor and high searing heat
• 240 sq in cooking surface fits meals for four or more
• Quick Jetfire ignition and collapsible legs
• Signature WAVE cast-iron grids create excellent grill marks

Cons:

• Larger packed size, not as compact as the 285
• Requires propane cylinders or an adapter hose
• No built-in thermometer

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Napoleon TravelQ 285 Portable Electric Grill

Pros:

• Plug-and-grill simplicity—no fuel tanks or flames
• Slightly larger 285 sq in cooking surface
• Integrated temperature gauge for precise cooking
• Great for balconies, condos, and no-flame zones

Cons:

• Lacks the smoky flavor of propane
• Needs a power outlet (and a long cord if outlets are scarce)
• Slightly slower to reach top heat compared to the 240’s burner

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Final Verdict & Recommendation

If you crave that unmistakable flame-kissed flavor and plan to grill where propane is welcome, the Napoleon TravelQ 240 is the clear pick. Its 9,000 BTUs and cast-iron grids deliver seared steaks and burgers with a satisfying char that electric simply can’t replicate.

However, if you live in an apartment with strict fire codes, camp in regions with frequent fire bans, or simply prefer the plug-and-play convenience of electricity, the TravelQ 285 makes grilling virtually anywhere a reality. The slightly larger cooking area is a bonus for family meals.

For my lifestyle—mostly backyard parties and weekend road trips—the TravelQ 240 stays in my trunk. But when I visit friends in high-rise condos or campgrounds with flame restrictions, I recommend the TravelQ 285 without hesitation. Napoleon has crafted two excellent portable grills that excel in different environments; choose the one that fits how and where you cook.