8 Best Smokeless Indoor Grills for Apartments 2026

If you’re craving restaurant-quality sear marks and smoky flavor without stepping outside, the Ninja GR101 delivers with serious heat and versatility. Its 500°F max temperature ensures rapid searing—locking in juices for steaks or salmon—while the interchangeable grill and griddle plates make it a powerhouse for everything from fajitas to pancakes. The edge-to-edge even heating eliminates frustrating hot spots, solving a common pain point with budget grills, and the low-smoke design keeps your kitchen air clear during indoor BBQs.

In real-world testing, this countertop grill shines when multitasking—grilling burgers while warming buns on the flat-top, or searing veggies alongside chicken strips. The 14-inch cooking surface comfortably feeds 4–6 people, making it ideal for family dinners, and the hood-up or hood-down functionality adds flexibility: use it open for aggressive charring or closed to melt cheese evenly. While it doesn’t fully eliminate smoke from high-fat meats, the perforated mesh lid and grease catch system significantly reduce splatter and airborne particles. It’s not completely silent—the fan runs during use—but noise levels are reasonable for an electric grill.

Compared to the Chefman budget models, the Ninja GR101 offers superior build quality and dual-plate convenience, though it lacks air frying or smart tech found in higher-end models like the Ninja DG551. It’s best suited for families or frequent home cooks who want consistent results and don’t mind a slightly larger footprint. For those prioritizing realistic grilling performance over multi-functionality, this grill outperforms similarly priced units with its high-heat capability and family-sized capacity.

For apartment dwellers on a budget, the Chefman smokeless grill is a game-changing entry-level option that brings outdoor BBQ vibes indoors—without breaking the bank. Its 15 x 9-inch extra-large surface is a standout, letting you cook burgers, sausages, and veggies all at once, which solves the common problem of batch cooking on smaller units. The water-filled drip tray actively cools falling grease, reducing smoke by up to 90%, making it one of the most practical low-smoke solutions under $40.

During testing, this grill proved reliable for weekday dinners: searing chicken breasts, grilling portobello mushrooms, and even making grilled cheese sandwiches with minimal smoke. The adjustable temperature control allows for everything from gentle warming to high-heat searing, though it doesn’t reach the 500°F peak of premium models, so deep char marks are harder to achieve. The ceramic nonstick plate performed well—food slid off easily—but required occasional wiping between batches to prevent sticking with sugary marinades. It’s not ideal for fatty meats like bacon, where smoke can still build up if the water tray isn’t properly filled.

When compared to the Ninja GR101, this Chefman model trades power and dual plates for affordability and simplicity, making it perfect for singles, couples, or college students. It’s also a strong contender against the CUSIMAX models in smoke reduction, though it lacks LED displays or dual-zone cooking. If you want a no-frills, easy-to-clean grill that gets the job done without cluttering your counter, this delivers excellent value. While it won’t replicate a charcoal grill’s intensity, it offers solid performance for the price, especially when space and budget are tight.

The Ninja DG551 isn’t just a grill—it’s a complete kitchen overhaul in one sleek appliance, engineered for those who demand precision, power, and versatility. With Cyclonic Grilling Technology delivering 500°F heat from both the grill grate and circulating air, it sears steaks with authentic char marks while cooking food evenly from edge to center. The star feature? The integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer—a rare inclusion that takes the guesswork out of doneness, guiding you from rare to well-done with laser accuracy across four protein types.

In daily use, this grill excels across scenarios: air frying crispy wings with 75% less fat than deep frying, roasting vegetables with caramelized edges, or dehydrating fruit in batches. The 6-in-1 functionality replaces multiple appliances, saving space—ideal for small kitchens or minimalist households. The smoke control system, combining a splatter shield and cool-air zone, keeps indoor grilling truly low-smoke, even with fatty cuts. However, it does require some learning: preheating is essential, and overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven results. The 4-qt capacity suits small families but may need rotation for larger meals.

Stacked against the Gourmia combo unit, the Ninja DG551 offers smarter cooking automation and superior temperature precision, though it comes at a higher cost. It’s the clear upgrade over basic smokeless grills like the Chefman models, trading simplicity for pro-level control and multi-functionality. Best for tech-savvy cooks or health-conscious families who want restaurant-quality results without oil or smoke, this model justifies its premium status with unmatched versatility and intelligent design.

The CUSIMAX B09FP82WVY is a Korean BBQ enthusiast’s dream, engineered for maximum flavor and minimal smoke in compact living spaces. With 1500W power and Double U heating tubes, it heats up fast and maintains consistent temperature across the entire surface—locking in juices and delivering juicy, restaurant-style steak in under 10 minutes. Its Turbo Smoke fan system is the real hero, removing at least 95% of smoke during cooking, which means you can grill salmon or ribs in your studio apartment without setting off alarms or leaving lingering odors.

Real-world testing confirms its strength in high-heat, high-fat scenarios: it handled marinated bulgogi and pork belly with ease, thanks to the perforated nonstick plate that drains excess oil while leaving behind satisfying grill marks. The LED smart display offers precise control from 200°F to 450°F, letting you sear, simmer, or warm with confidence. The tempered glass lid allows visual monitoring without heat loss, and the dishwasher-safe components—including the reflector and drip tray—make post-meal cleanup a breeze. That said, it can struggle with very thick cuts without pre-slicing, and the fan, while effective, adds noticeable noise during operation.

Compared to the Amornest dual-zone model, this CUSIMAX grill offers higher wattage and better heat distribution, but lacks the ability to cook eggs or pancakes simultaneously. It’s a stronger performer than the basic Chefman units, especially for smoke reduction and build quality. Ideal for urban dwellers, small households, or Korean BBQ lovers, this model strikes a perfect balance between power, smoke control, and ease of use. For those who prioritize clean indoor grilling with authentic results, it outshines many competitors in its price range.

When precision heat control is your top priority, the Chefman B077XMNSFP stands out with a smooth-adjust temperature knob that transitions seamlessly from “warm” to “sear”—a rare feature in this category. This intuitive dial lets you fine-tune cooking zones on the same plate, ideal for preparing delicate fish at low heat while searing steak on the same surface. The extra-large cooking area supports full meals, and the water tray system effectively cools dripping grease, minimizing smoke when filled correctly—making it a solid pick for smoke-sensitive apartments.

In practice, this grill handles everyday meals with ease: grilled vegetables stay crisp, chicken breasts cook evenly, and burgers develop a satisfying crust. The nonstick surface releases food cleanly, and the removable tray and grill top are dishwasher-safe, speeding up cleanup. However, it only reaches around 450°F—lower than the 500°F of Ninja or CUSIMAX models—so deep char marks take longer and may be inconsistent. It also lacks digital controls or presets, which could frustrate users wanting more automation. Still, for those who enjoy hands-on cooking and want full command over heat levels, this model delivers unmatched control in a budget package.

Against the Ninja GR101, it trades high-heat performance and dual plates for superior temperature granularity and lower cost. It’s not as versatile as multi-cookers like the Gourmia, but it excels in its niche: customized, smoke-reduced grilling with intuitive manual control. Best for cooks who value tactile adjustment over automation, this grill offers remarkable flexibility for its price point, especially when compared to fixed-setting rivals.

The Amornest B0FJY1R1S5 redefines versatility with its dual-zone cooking surface, letting you grill meats on one side and fry eggs or pancakes on the other—a rare feature that turns dinner prep into a one-appliance show. Powered by 1100W Double U heating tubes, it delivers fast, even heat across both zones, while the dual-turbo smoke extractor pulls away up to 95% of smoke, making it a top contender for apartment-friendly indoor grilling. The 6-level LED temperature control (212–446°F) offers precise settings for everything from slow-cooked ribs to quick-seared shrimp, giving you pro-level command without complexity.

In real use, this grill shines during breakfast-for-dinner nights: bacon sizzles on the grill side while eggs cook on the flat zone, all without flavor transfer. The nonstick plates release food easily, and the removable drip tray catches grease efficiently, especially when a bit of water is added. However, the 1100W power is slightly lower than 1500W rivals, so searing thick steaks takes longer, and the grill doesn’t reach the same peak heat as the CUSIMAX models. Still, for small families or couples who want simultaneous cooking without multiple appliances, it’s a game-changer.

Compared to the Ninja GR101, the Amornest offers better multitasking but less raw power. It lacks air frying or smart probes but wins on functional innovation and space efficiency. Ideal for urban cooks, small kitchens, or breakfast lovers, this grill provides unmatched dual-zone convenience at a mid-range price. For those who want two cooking styles in one pan with serious smoke control, it delivers exceptional value and flexibility.

The Gourmia B0FGGNWDQ3 is a multi-cooking powerhouse that blends smokeless grilling with full air frying capabilities, making it a smart choice for those who want maximum functionality in a single appliance. Its FryForce 360° Technology circulates hot air at up to 510°F, delivering crispy results with little to no oil—perfect for guilt-free fries, chicken tenders, or roasted veggies. The digital touch controls with preheat reminders and a glass viewing window make it easy to monitor food without losing heat, while the integrated smoke extractor keeps indoor grilling genuinely low-smoke, even with fatty meats.

In daily use, this unit transitions seamlessly from grilling salmon with perfect char to air frying frozen nuggets in minutes. The removable nonstick grate, air fry basket, and drip tray are all dishwasher-safe, simplifying cleanup. However, the cooking chamber is narrower than Ninja’s, so large cuts or full-family meals may require batch cooking. The presets are helpful but less precise than Ninja’s smart thermometer—more “set and forget” than “fine-tuned.” It also lacks dual-zone cooking, so you can’t fry eggs while grilling steak.

Compared to the Ninja DG551, the Gourmia offers similar multi-functionality at a lower price, but without the same temperature precision or app integration. It’s a stronger value than basic smokeless grills like the Chefman models, especially for users who want air frying and grilling in one. Best for small households or health-focused cooks, this combo unit delivers versatile, oil-free cooking with minimal smoke and mess. For those weighing features against cost, it offers impressive bang for the buck.

Designed specifically for apartment living, the CUSIMAX B0CMTJNJNH is a refined, space-smart grill that brings the joy of Korean BBQ indoors—without the smoke, hassle, or weather dependence. With 1500W power and Double U heating tubes, it heats rapidly and evenly, sealing in flavor while the Turbo Smoke Extractor removes up to 95% of smoke, ensuring your condo stays fresh and your neighbors stay happy. The LED smart display offers six preset temps (212°F to 446°F), making it easy to switch from gentle warming to high-heat searing with one touch—ideal for marinated meats that need precise control.

In real-world use, this grill handles everything from thin-sliced beef to grilled pineapple with impressive consistency. The tempered glass lid lets you monitor cooking without lifting, preserving heat and moisture, while the perforated nonstick plate drains grease and delivers authentic grill marks. All key parts—glass lid, grill plate, drip tray, heat reflector—are dishwasher-safe, and the portable design makes storage simple in tight kitchens. However, like most electric grills, it struggles slightly with very thick steaks unless pre-sliced, and the fan noise, while acceptable, is noticeable in quiet apartments.

Against the Ninja GR101, this CUSIMAX model offers better smoke control and apartment-friendly design, though it lacks interchangeable plates. It outperforms the Chefman units in build quality and heat output, making it a top pick for urban grillers. If you want a sleek, quiet, and truly smokeless experience that fits small spaces, this model delivers exceptional performance and convenience. For apartment dwellers who love BBQ but hate the mess, it’s the most balanced and thoughtful option available.