Compact grills have become the unsung heroes of outdoor cooking. Whether it’s a spontaneous beach picnic, a tailgate party, or a weekend camping trip, a reliable portable grill can turn any location into a backyard barbecue. After spending time with both the Napoleon TravelQ 240 and the Weber Q1200, I’ve gathered a detailed, hands-on perspective to help you decide which of these travel-friendly cookers deserves a spot in your gear.
Key Difference Between Napoleon TravelQ 240 vs Weber Q1200 Portabe Propane Grill
While both are portable propane grills built for convenience, the Napoleon TravelQ 240 leans toward a slightly larger cooking surface and a hotter single-burner output (9,000 BTUs) ideal for feeding more people at once. The Weber Q1200, on the other hand, shines with thoughtful extras: a built-in lid thermometer, electronic ignition, and folding side tables for extra prep space. Essentially, Napoleon prioritizes raw space and searing power; Weber focuses on control and versatility.
- Napoleon Accessory - TQ240-RD - TravelQ, Blue, Cast Iron Wave Grids, 9,000 BTU, Stainless Steel Burner, Jetfire Ignition,
- The Black Weber Q1200 Travel Grill features porcelain-enameled, cast-iron cooking grates; Grates offer superior heat retention, flavor infusion, and an...
Quick Comparison Table: Napoleon TravelQ 240 vs Weber Q1200 Portabe Propane Grill
| Feature | Napoleon TravelQ 240 | Weber Q1200 |
| Cooking Area | 240 sq. in. | 189 sq. in. |
| Burner Output | 9,000 BTU stainless-steel burner | 8,500 BTU stainless-steel burner |
| Ignition | Jetfire failsafe ignition | Electronic push-button ignition |
| Construction | Porcelainized cast-iron WAVE grids, collapsible legs | Cast-aluminum lid & cookbox, porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates |
| Special Features | Large grilling surface, removable grease tray | Folding side tables, integrated lid thermometer |
| Dimensions (approx.) | 37″D x 66″W x 37″H | 20.5″D x 40.9″W x 24.6″H |
| Fuel | 16.4 oz. LP cylinder (adapter compatible) | 16.4 oz. LP cylinder (adapter compatible) |
| Check Price & Deals | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Detailed Comparative Review
Before we dive into specifics like design and ease of use, it’s worth noting that both grills feel premium despite their portable nature. Over several weekends of burgers, kebabs, and even a few vegetables, each left a distinct impression.
Design & Build Quality
The Napoleon TravelQ 240 arrives in a striking blue finish that immediately stands out at a campsite. The porcelainized cast-iron WAVE grids not only look sharp but also deliver those signature sear marks. Its collapsible legs are practical, though the overall footprint is larger—something to consider if car trunk space is tight.
The Weber Q1200, with its cast-aluminum lid and cookbox, feels rugged yet refined. The black model I tested had a sleek, understated style. The folding side tables are clever: they pop out when you need extra room for plates or tools and fold neatly when you’re packing up.
- Napoleon Accessory - TQ240-RD - TravelQ, Blue, Cast Iron Wave Grids, 9,000 BTU, Stainless Steel Burner, Jetfire Ignition,
- The Black Weber Q1200 Travel Grill features porcelain-enameled, cast-iron cooking grates; Grates offer superior heat retention, flavor infusion, and an...
Setup & Portability
Napoleon’s Jetfire ignition is impressively reliable; a single push lights the burner every time. Its legs fold in seconds, and the removable drip tray makes cleanup painless. However, at roughly 66 inches wide when fully assembled, it’s less compact in transit.
Weber’s Q1200 wins for true grab-and-go convenience. It’s smaller, lighter, and the electronic ignition is equally dependable. The side tables fold flush against the body, making it easier to fit into a hatchback or even a larger cooler compartment.
Cooking Performance
Here’s where personality shows. The TravelQ 240 delivers a hearty 9,000 BTUs across a 240-square-inch surface, which means you can grill for a group of four to six without rotating food off the grate. Heat distribution is even, and those WAVE grids really do sear like a cast-iron skillet.
The Q1200 isn’t far behind at 8,500 BTUs, but its slightly smaller 189-square-inch area suits couples or small families. I appreciated the infinite control burner valve—it’s easier to fine-tune low and medium settings for delicate items like fish or veggies. The integrated lid thermometer adds peace of mind when cooking thicker cuts.
- Napoleon Accessory - TQ240-RD - TravelQ, Blue, Cast Iron Wave Grids, 9,000 BTU, Stainless Steel Burner, Jetfire Ignition,
Versatility & Features
Napoleon keeps things straightforward: one burner, ample space, and that classic cast-iron flavor. It’s the minimalist’s travel grill—high heat and big surface.
Weber, meanwhile, piles on useful touches. The high-dome lid allows roasting of small chickens or even a rack of ribs if you get creative. Those folding side tables transform setup, offering a convenient staging area you don’t realize you need until you have it. The removable catch pan simplifies post-cook cleanup.
- The Black Weber Q1200 Travel Grill features porcelain-enameled, cast-iron cooking grates; Grates offer superior heat retention, flavor infusion, and an...
Ease of Cleaning
Both grills understand that cleaning should be quick after a long day outdoors. Napoleon’s removable grease tray and accessible firebox are excellent. Weber’s pull-out grease pan is just as effective, and the porcelain-enameled grates release residue easily with a basic brush.
Napoleon TravelQ 240 Compact Portable Propane Grill
- Napoleon Accessory - TQ240-RD - TravelQ, Blue, Cast Iron Wave Grids, 9,000 BTU, Stainless Steel Burner, Jetfire Ignition,
Pros:
- Larger cooking area for its class
- 9,000 BTU burner with strong searing capability
- Iconic WAVE cast-iron grids create perfect grill marks
- Collapsible legs and removable drip tray for easy transport and cleanup
Cons:
- Larger footprint when packed
- No built-in thermometer
- Fewer extras (no side tables or multi-zone cooking options)
Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Portable Gass Grill
- The Black Weber Q1200 Travel Grill features porcelain-enameled, cast-iron cooking grates; Grates offer superior heat retention, flavor infusion, and an...
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight; folds small for travel
- Integrated lid thermometer for precise heat management
- Folding side tables provide instant prep space
- Electronic ignition is fast and reliable
Cons:
- Slightly less cooking surface than Napoleon
- 8,500 BTU output is powerful but not quite as robust
- Higher price point for similar single-burner performance
Final Verdict & Recommendation
After multiple outings, I’d say the decision boils down to your typical gathering size and how you value portability versus cooking space.
- Choose the Napoleon TravelQ 240 if you often cook for a crowd and want the biggest possible grilling surface in a still-portable body. Its searing power and signature grill marks are hard to beat when you’re feeding several hungry campers.
- Go with the Weber Q1200 if you prize compact storage, integrated features, and precise control. For couples, small families, or tailgaters who love built-in conveniences like a thermometer and side tables, it’s an effortless companion.
Both are excellent portable gas grills, but if I had to keep only one for regular road trips, I’d personally lean toward the Weber Q1200 for its superior versatility and travel-friendly design—though I’d miss those Napoleon WAVE sear marks every time I bit into a burger.
