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Current Backyard’s electric grills are compelling where propane, charcoal, or open flames are prohibited—but they are not automatically legal or plug-and-play on every balcony. Before buying, confirm written building approval, local fire rules, a suitable outdoor circuit, safe clearances, and enough room for a roughly 100-pound cart.
The concept began with Current’s CES 2024 announcement of the Model G Dual-Zone Electric Grill and Model G Electric Griddle. Current’s lineup has since expanded, but the buying decision remains practical rather than purely technological: the grill must fit your building rules, electrical capacity, cooking habits, budget, and expectations about smoke and searing.
What problem is Current Backyard solving?
Many apartment, condominium, and urban properties restrict propane cylinders, charcoal, and open-flame cooking. Some leases and homeowners’ association rules prohibit balcony grills altogether; others allow certain electric appliances. Fuel storage, flare-ups, smoke, and fire risk can also make conventional grills impractical.
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#1 Best Overall
- GEORGE TOUGH NONSTICK COATING – There’s a lot to love about this nonstick coating; it’s durable, easy to clean, and removes the need for butter and oil. For best results, use nylon scrubbers and wash after each use.
- REMOVABLE STAND – Don’t let the weather stop your grilling; the stand easily detaches so you can move from patio to countertop. Ensure grill clips securely into place on the stand before use.
- ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE CONTROL – Perfect heat is the secret ingredient. Choose from five heat settings and preheat for 10 minutes for best results. Grill steaks, fish, veggies, fruit, and even dessert with confidence.
- APARTMENT APPROVED – Your landlord will love it too! The fully electric system gives you high-quality grilling with no charcoal, no propane, and no flare-ups. Use on a heat-safe surface indoors or outdoors.
- FAT-REMOVING SLOPE – A signature feature of the George Foreman Grill. The sloped grilling surface helps remove up to 42% of fat.* Make sure grill is level to let grease flow into the drip tray properly.
Current also says its design is NFPA-approved for urban environments. That is a statement from the manufacturer; readers should still verify the exact rules applying to their building and jurisdiction. Current Backyard
What Current Backyard announced at CES 2024
The original January 11, 2024 announcement covered two products:
- Model G Dual-Zone Electric Grill: two independently controlled zones, an advertised maximum of 700°F, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, two wired temperature probes, SmartClean, and a standard cart. The announced price was $899.
- Model G Electric Griddle: a flat cooking surface, an advertised maximum of 600°F, app connectivity, and an Auto-Seasoning feature. The announced price was $799.
Engadget reported that both products were available for preorder and expected to begin shipping on February 5, 2024. That is launch history, not evidence of current stock. Engadget’s CES report
The current lineup is broader—and several products are sold out
Current’s lineup observed in August 2026 includes the original Model G, Model G+, Model G2, the Model G Electric Griddle, and separate Model P and P+ smart pizza ovens. The pizza ovens are not substitutes for the grills.
| Product | Listed price | Key details | Availability signal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model G Dual-Zone Electric Grill | $899 | 700°F advertised maximum; dual zones; 330 sq. in. primary area; older page lists 110V and 1,750W | Sold out on the official lineup |
| Model G+ Electric Grill | $1,099 | Current-generation grill option | Sold out on the official lineup |
| Model G2 Electric Grill | $1,199 | 700°F advertised maximum; QuickRelease heating elements; built-in storage; 330 sq. in. primary area plus 92 sq. in. secondary area; 120V | Sold out on the official lineup |
| Model G Electric Griddle | $699 on current pages | 600°F advertised maximum; flat-top cooking; Auto-Seasoning | Sold out on the official lineup |
Older launch material lists the griddle at $799, while current comparison and lineup pages show $699. Prices and availability should be checked on the live store before purchase. Current’s current collection
What makes the grills “smart”?
The connected features described by Current and the CES coverage include:
- Remote temperature adjustment and monitoring.
- Food-temperature monitoring through wired probes.
- Ambient-temperature display.
- Timers, alerts, and guided recipes.
- SmartClean on the grill.
- Auto-Seasoning on the griddle.
- Remote shutdown.
Connectivity is most useful when you are hosting, following a guided recipe, or monitoring food without repeatedly walking outside. It is less important for a short cook when the grill is already nearby.
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- 【High-Quality BBQ】 Techwood Electric Grill with No Charcoal, No Propane, No Flare-Ups. Can be Used Indoors & Outdoors, Such as Camping , Garden , Park，Balcony and so on. Enjoy a High-Quality Grilling with your Family and Friends !
- 【Fast Heating】 You can adjust the Sensitive Temperature Regulator to change temperature. Grill cover can ensure rapid heating cycle , which make the meat more evenly Heated , Tender and Juicy. The Children of the Neighbors will be Attracted by this Delicious food !
- 【15 - Servings】Techwood stand Grill Equipped with 240 Square Inches Of Circular Grilling Surface, which lets you make over 15 -Servings for Party. And the above Foldable Warming Rack offers Extra Space to keep the food warm. Both food racks can be disassembled and easy to clean.
- 【Easy to Install and Clean 】 All the screws were already where they needed to be. All you had to do was unscrew them and add the proper piece. There has a Removable grease pan , I suggest you put down aluminum foil under heat source to catch grease and oil.
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The CES report also said users had to physically set the temperature and press a button to start the grill; remote startup was not described as completely hands-off. App pairing, firmware, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, phone compatibility, and account requirements create additional failure points that a basic grill does not. Current’s available materials do not independently establish every present-day app requirement or which functions work without internet access, so verify those details in the current app listing and manual.
How hot does a Current electric grill get?
Current lists the Model G, Model G+, and Model G2 at up to 700°F. The griddle is listed at up to 600°F. Current’s separate pizza ovens are listed at up to 850°F, but they are different appliances.
“Up to 700°F” means an advertised maximum, not a complete performance test. Heating-element temperature, grate temperature, lid temperature, and food-surface temperature are different measurements. The figure also does not establish:
- How quickly the grill reaches that temperature.
- How well it recovers after the lid opens.
- Whether heat is uniform across the grate.
- How consistently it sears in cold or windy weather.
- Whether it produces the same flavor as burning charcoal, wood, or propane.
Current makes additional marketing comparisons, including claims about juiciness, grill flavor, and performance relative to gas grills. Those are manufacturer claims, not independent measurements. Current Model G information
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Electrical requirements are the critical buying check
The older Model G information lists 110V operation, 1,750 watts, a 12-foot cord, and a recommendation for a 15-amp circuit. The newer G2 page specifies 120V operation, 1,750 watts, a 12-foot cord, a 120V/15A dedicated breaker requirement, and a 120V/20A circuit recommendation.
Do not silently treat the 110V and 120V specifications as identical. They may reflect different product generations, labeling, or updated guidance. Confirm the requirements for the exact model being sold.
Practical electrical checklist
- Confirm that the permitted cooking location has an appropriate outdoor-rated outlet.
- Identify whether the outlet is on a dedicated circuit, particularly for the G2.
- Do not assume a nearby receptacle can support the grill and other high-draw equipment.
- Avoid sharing the circuit with an air conditioner, heater, microwave, or similar appliance.
- Do not use an extension cord, adapter, or improvised wiring unless the current manual expressly permits it and the equipment is correctly rated.
- Ask building management or a qualified electrician about circuit capacity and local requirements.
A balcony can have enough physical space but still lack a compliant circuit. For renters, installing a dedicated circuit may not be possible without written approval.
Rank #3
- High Power: With 1800W of power, this grill heats up quickly and holds temperature steadily—perfect for large gatherings and fast grilling
- Smart & Adjustable: The smart heat control system supports temperatures up to 575°F, delivering precise heat management from gentle warming to intense searing for consistent results
- Cooking Visualization: A digital thermometer monitors both left and right cooking zones while the clear digital display provides easy-to-read, real-time temperature tracking for precise control
- Safe & Reliable Start: The waterproof switch delivers excellent moisture and humidity protection, ensuring safe operation and lasting durability
- Stylish & Durable: The cool gray powder-coated control panel and black knobs offer a stylish, easy-to-clean finish, while illuminated knobs enhance visibility and add a modern touch
See the Model G2 specifications
Does “balcony-friendly” mean every balcony is allowed?
No. Before ordering, obtain written confirmation from the landlord, property manager, HOA, or condominium board. Also check:
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- HOA rules.
- Local fire-department or municipal restrictions.
- Building insurance requirements.
- Balcony load limits.
- Whether outdoor electrical appliances are permitted.
- Required clearances from walls, railings, ceilings, and combustible materials.
- Rules concerning smoke, odors, grease, and runoff.
A flame-free appliance can still become hot and produce grease, smoke, and cooking odors. Electric does not mean hazard-free, weatherproof in every condition, or legal in every building. Follow the exact user guide for placement, rain exposure, covering, storage, and cleaning.
Size and cooking capacity
The original Model G page lists 330 square inches of primary cooking area and 422 square inches of total cooking area. It also lists a weight of 116 pounds and approximate assembled dimensions of 49 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 45 inches high.
The G2 page lists 330 square inches of primary cooking area, 92 square inches of secondary-rack area, a weight of 108 pounds, and a footprint of about 49 by 24 inches. The different total-area figures should not be merged because the pages may define cooking areas differently.
That is enough capacity for a small family or modest gathering, and the two zones can help separate food requiring different temperatures. But the cart is not a lightweight tabletop appliance. Measure:
- Doors and hallways.
- Elevators and stairwells.
- Balcony gates and thresholds.
- The route from delivery location to final placement.
- Clearance around the grill once the lid is open.
For a balcony installation, the access route and load limit may matter more than the nominal cooking area.
How useful is dual-zone cooking?
Two independently controlled zones allow you to sear on one side while cooking more gently on the other, prepare meat and vegetables simultaneously, or keep finished food warm. They can also support direct- and indirect-style cooking strategies.
Rank #4
- FOLDABLE OUTDOOR GRILL-Say goodbye to the hassle of propane. This portable electric griddle reaches temperatures up to 500°F, features a nonstick surface, and is easy to use.
- CAN BE USED AS A GRILL CART-Cover it up to transform into a Multifunctional Grill Table,compatible with grills measuring 31'' x 17''.Includes a removable spice rack and double shelf.
- DURABLE DESIGN-The cooking aluminum pan is rust-resistant and distributes heat evenly. The countertop can support up to 450 pounds, and the entire product is constructed using welding techniques, making it sturdy and durable enough for outdoor use.
- UNIQUE TEMPERATURE CONTROL KNOB-1800W power delivers temperatures up to 500°F, offering rapid heating and effortless operation.
- EASY TO STORE AND CONVENIENT TO MOVE-Equipped with 2 swivel casters and 2 fixed wheels for stability and easy maneuverability, it folds completely for compact storage in your car trunk, making it a great travel companion.
Dual zones do not eliminate normal grill management. Crowding, frequent lid opening, food placement, carryover cooking, and uneven loading still affect results. Current describes the system as precise and evenly heated, but the supplied sources do not provide independent heat-uniformity testing.
Can it taste like a gas or charcoal grill?
Electric heating can brown food and produce grill marks. Current says its cooking system vaporizes juices and returns flavor to the food, and it advertises grill marks and flavor without propane or charcoal.
The important distinctions are:
- Heat: A 700°F advertised maximum may support high-temperature cooking.
- Searing: Grill marks depend on grate design, contact temperature, moisture, and timing.
- Smoke: No open flame does not mean no smoke; dripping fat and food residue can smoke.
- Flavor: Electric heating does not reproduce the combustion chemistry of charcoal or wood.
Current’s “up to 50% juicier” statement is a company claim. It should not be treated as an independently verified result. Buyers who specifically want wood-smoke or charcoal flavor may be disappointed even if the grill sears effectively.
Cleaning and maintenance
The original grill includes SmartClean, which can be activated from the grill or app. The G2’s QuickRelease heating elements are presented as an upgrade for easier cleanup and durability.
Neither feature makes the grill maintenance-free. Before buying, confirm in the current manual:
- Whether the grates must be removed and hand-washed.
- How grease is collected and how often the tray must be emptied.
- What SmartClean actually does and how long it runs.
- Whether water or degreaser can contact heating elements.
- Whether the griddle needs routine oiling or seasoning.
- Whether replacement grates, probes, and heating elements are available.
Keep the appliance disconnected as directed during cleaning and never improvise with water around electrical components.
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Warranty, returns, and availability
Current product pages state that registration within 60 days can provide a limited 10-year warranty; without registration, the stated limited term is five years. Detailed coverage varies by component, and accessories are excluded. Registering promptly matters.
Best Value
- INDOOR AND OUTDOOR USE: Enjoy the flexibility to use this electric grill on the stand for outdoor cooking or remove it for tabletop grilling indoors. Ideal for kitchens, balconies, patios, and more. 6-foot power cord ensures convenient placement
- SPACIOUS COOKING AREA: The 240 sq. in. nonstick cooking surface accommodates up to 12 burgers at once, perfect for family meals or small gatherings. The nonstick surface ensures easy food release and quick cleanup for this outdoor electric grill
- ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE CONTROL: The temperature probe offers 5 heat settings ranging from 350°F to 550°F, letting you select the ideal cooking temperature for grilling meats, veggies, and more
- EFFECTIVE GREASE MANAGEMENT: The cooking surface features a central channel that guides grease into the collection cup below, keeping your grilling space clean and reducing the risk of flare-ups
- QUICK ASSEMBLY: No tools or hardware are needed for setup. The BBQ grill can be assembled and ready to use in under 10 minutes, so you can start cooking indoors or outdoors right away
Current’s homepage and relevant product pages advertise a 60-day risk-free trial, while an older accessibility page still references a 30-day money-back guarantee. Confirm the live return policy, eligibility, shipping treatment, restocking rules, and exclusions before ordering.
As of the August 2026 information supplied for this article, several official product pages showed the lineup as sold out. Do not assume a listed product can be purchased or delivered without checking current stock. Check Current’s lineup
What does ownership really cost?
The listed grill price is only part of the project. A realistic budget may include:
- The grill or griddle.
- A cover, listed at $119 on Current pages.
- Cleaning tools, such as the listed $59 CoolSurface brush.
- Accessories such as the listed $49.99 locking tongs.
- Electrical work or building-approved circuit upgrades.
- Replacement probes or other service parts.
- Optional storage or cabinet accessories.
- Delivery, setup, or in-home installation where applicable.
- Financing costs if using Affirm.
Current advertises financing through Affirm, but eligibility, APR, and repayment terms vary. Financing changes the payment schedule; it is not automatically a discount.
Current versus propane, charcoal, and cheaper electric grills
| Compared with | Current’s advantages | Current’s disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Propane | No tank, no open flame, no fuel refills, app monitoring, dual-zone control | Needs a substantial circuit, cannot work during an outage, less portable, higher price than many basic models |
| Charcoal | Faster setup, no ash or charcoal storage, automated temperature management | No true charcoal combustion flavor, electricity dependence, less suited to traditional smoke-forward cooking |
| Lower-priced electric grill | Higher advertised heat, dual zones, cart form, probes, connectivity, larger outdoor-kitchen design | Much more expensive, heavier, larger, and more complex to maintain |
Other categories may suit different needs. Weber electric grills may appeal to buyers wanting a simpler mainstream electric format. Ninja Woodfire appliances target compact cooking and smoke-oriented accessories rather than the same full-size cart category. GE Profile’s smart indoor smoker is relevant to readers who primarily want smoking indoors, not balcony grilling. A tabletop electric grill is usually a better choice for portability and low cost.
Where permitted, a basic propane grill remains more attractive for buyers who value simplicity, portability, and combustion cooking. Charcoal remains the better fit for traditional smoke flavor.
Who should consider a Current grill?
- Consider it if: your building permits electric outdoor cooking, you have a compliant circuit, you want a cart-sized appliance, and dual-zone control or connected monitoring has real value.
- Consider the G2 if: you want Current’s newest grill, QuickRelease heating elements, built-in storage, 700°F advertised heat, and the included Flex Tray Kit.
- Consider the griddle if: you mainly cook eggs, pancakes, burgers, vegetables, quesadillas, or stir-fries and do not need grate marks or indirect grilling.
- Choose another category if: your building prohibits all grills, you lack a suitable circuit, you need portability, you cook during outages, you avoid apps and accounts, or wood and charcoal flavor is the priority.
Decision checklist before purchase
- Get written building or HOA approval.
- Check local fire and electrical requirements.
- Confirm the exact model’s voltage, wattage, breaker, and cord requirements.
- Have the circuit assessed rather than relying on the nearest outlet.
- Measure the delivery route and final placement.
- Confirm balcony load limits and required clearances.
- Read the current manual for rain, storage, cleaning, and extension-cord rules.
- Price the cover, cleaning supplies, electrical work, and service parts.
- Check live inventory and the current return policy.
- Register the product within 60 days if the purchased model’s warranty requires it.
Verdict
Current’s strongest differentiator is not simply that it uses electricity. It combines a cart-based design, two cooking zones, high advertised heat, wired probes, and app-connected controls in a product aimed at places where conventional grills may be restricted.
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That makes it potentially useful for some apartment, condo, and urban cooks—but only after permission and electrical capacity are confirmed. Its main drawbacks are the $899–$1,199 grill pricing, substantial size and weight, dedicated-circuit demands, app-related complexity, uncertain availability, and the gap between manufacturer claims and independently verified performance. It is a specialized solution for a flame-restricted outdoor space, not a universal replacement for propane or charcoal.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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