Coleman EI Fold N Go 1-Burner Propane Grill Review

Uncovering the Coleman EI Fold N Go 1-Burner Propane Grill: Real Review

As someone who’s spent over a decade wrestling with gear in every conceivable environment, from sun-baked deserts to frigid alpine peaks and dusty workshop corners, I’ve developed a keen eye for what truly works. My search for a portable, single-burner propane grill led me to the Coleman EI Fold N Go 1-Burner Propane Grill. This compact unit promised convenience and decent cooking power for quick outdoor meals or even as a supplementary heat source in a field workshop.

My initial need arose during a lengthy fieldwork project where access to a full kitchen was impossible, and pre-packaged meals were becoming a monotonous burden. I needed something that could handle a simple skillet meal, boil water efficiently, and pack down small enough to not become a nuisance in already crowded transport. A friend’s recommendation, coupled with the familiar Coleman brand name, made this model an attractive consideration.

Upon unboxing, the grill presented a straightforward, utilitarian design. The metallic red finish is classic Coleman, and the overall construction felt reasonably solid for its intended purpose. There was a definite sense of immediate functionality, without any complex setup or fiddly components to decipher right out of the box.

I briefly considered a few other compact camping stoves, including some single-burner butane models, but ultimately gravitated towards propane for its wider availability and slightly more consistent performance in cooler weather. The promise of a built-in ignition system on this Coleman also tipped the scales. My first impression was a quiet sense of preparedness, a feeling that this unit was ready to get to work without much fuss.

Real-World Testing: Putting Coleman EI Fold N Go 1-Burner Propane Grill to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial foray with this single-burner grill took place on a remote construction site, serving as a makeshift cook station during lunch breaks. The setup was remarkably simple: attach a standard propane canister, press the igniter, and you have flame. This was a significant improvement over wrestling with matches and charcoal in windy conditions.

In terms of performance, the grill handled moderate tasks well. It efficiently brought a small pot of water to a boil for instant coffee and seared a few thin-cut steaks adequately. The 6,000 BTU output proved sufficient for these basic culinary needs, though it struggled with anything requiring sustained high heat for thicker cuts. I noticed it performed best when shielded from direct wind, as expected with any open-flame burner.

The ease of use was a standout feature. The Instastart matchless lighting ignition system worked flawlessly every single time, eliminating any fumbling with lighters or matches. This intuitive design meant I didn’t need to consult a manual or spend time figuring things out.

My only minor surprise was the initial heat distribution across the 105 square inches of cooking space. While perfectly adequate for a single item, placing multiple smaller items required careful arrangement to ensure even cooking. It’s definitely designed for a singular focus, rather than multitasking.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of intermittent use across various outdoor excursions and even a few workshop “cookouts” during long projects, the Coleman EI Fold N Go 1-Burner Propane Grill has held its ground admirably. It’s become my go-to for solo camping trips and quick meals when I don’t want to fire up a larger grill. Its consistent performance has been a welcome relief from some less reliable portable cookers I’ve encountered.

Durability has been a pleasant surprise. Despite being jostled around in the back of my truck and exposed to light dust and the occasional damp morning, there are no signs of significant wear. The porcelain-coated stamped steel grate shows minimal scuffing, and the burner still ignites with the same speed as day one. The removable water pan, which catches grease, has proven robust and easy to clean.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. The dishwasher safe water pan and cooking surface make cleanup a breeze. A quick wipe-down of the exterior after each use is generally all that’s needed. I haven’t experienced any performance degradation or issues with leaks, which is a common failing in lesser portable grills.

Compared to budget butane stoves I’ve used in the past, this propane unit offers a more robust build and a more consistent heat output, especially in less than ideal weather. While it doesn’t match the searing power of a full-sized backyard grill, for its portability and price point, its reliability is a significant advantage.

Breaking Down the Features of Coleman EI Fold N Go 1-Burner Propane Grill

Specifications

The Coleman EI Fold N Go 1-Burner Propane Grill packs a respectable set of features into its compact frame. At its heart is a single stainless steel tube burner with a stated output of 6,000 BTU. This might sound modest, but it’s perfectly calibrated for its 105 square inches of cooking space. The cooking surface itself is a porcelain coated stamped steel grate, offering a decent non-stick surface for most common grilling items.

This unit runs on standard propane canisters, a fuel type that’s readily available almost anywhere outdoor gear is sold. The inclusion of an Instastart matchless lighting ignition system is a key convenience, ensuring you can get cooking without fuss. The grill also features a removable water pan, designed to catch grease and drippings, which is a crucial element for easier cleanup.

The entire grill folds down for transport, secured by a simple latch, and features a convenient carry handle on top. The red color is a bold, classic choice that makes it easy to spot in a crowded campsite or gear pile. All these specifications combine to create a unit focused on portability and straightforward operation.

Performance & Functionality

In practice, the Coleman EI Fold N Go 1-Burner Propane Grill excels at its core mission: providing a quick and easy way to grill outdoors. It heats up quickly, and the 6,000 BTU output is more than adequate for single servings of burgers, sausages, or vegetables. I’ve successfully grilled several meals for one to two people without any significant issues.

The primary strength of this grill lies in its simplicity and reliability. The Instastart matchless lighting ignition system is a game-changer, making it incredibly user-friendly. The 105 square inches of cooking space is just enough for a single burger or a small pan.

However, its limitations become apparent when you push it beyond its intended scope. Attempting to cook larger quantities or items requiring prolonged, intense heat will test its capabilities. The porcelain coated stamped steel grate, while easy to clean, doesn’t offer the same even heat distribution as cast iron, leading to some hot and cool spots. It’s an excellent grill for its size and intended use, but don’t expect it to replace a full-sized grill.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Coleman unit is all about portability and ease of use. The red exterior is visually appealing, and the convenient carry handle makes transporting it a breeze. When folded, it’s compact enough to fit easily into a car trunk, a camping bin, or even a larger backpack side pocket.

The build quality feels appropriate for the price point. The metal construction is sturdy enough for regular use, and the folding mechanism operates smoothly. The stainless steel tube burner is a durable choice for this type of application.

Ergonomically, it’s very straightforward. The controls are minimal and intuitive. Placing the propane canister and igniting the burner are the primary interactions, and both are designed for simplicity. The removable water pan is a thoughtful touch that significantly improves the user experience by simplifying the cleanup process.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, this single-burner propane grill appears to be built for the long haul, provided it’s treated with reasonable care. The porcelain coated stamped steel grate has resisted rust and flaking, even with consistent exposure to the elements. The folding mechanism, a common point of failure in portable gear, feels robust and hasn’t shown any signs of loosening or sticking.

Maintenance is exceptionally low. The dishwasher safe water pan and cooking surface are the major highlights here, transforming a potentially messy task into a quick chore. Beyond that, occasional wiping down of the exterior and ensuring the burner holes are clear of debris is all that’s required.

There haven’t been any significant failure points observed. The primary concern with any propane grill is gas flow and ignition, and both have remained perfectly reliable. It’s designed to be a dependable tool for its intended purpose, not a piece of delicate equipment.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Coleman EI Fold N Go 1-Burner Propane Grill comes as a self-contained unit, with no extensive list of included accessories. Its primary accessory is, of course, the standard propane canister it utilizes, and it’s compatible with most common 1lb Coleman propane cylinders. Beyond that, customization is minimal, which is part of its charm; it’s designed to be ready to go right out of the box.

There aren’t really any significant aftermarket modifications or customization options typically pursued for a grill of this nature. Its value lies in its integrated design and simplicity. However, one might consider a windbreak or a more robust carrying case for extended travel, but these are external additions rather than integrated features.

Pros and Cons of Coleman EI Fold N Go 1-Burner Propane Grill

Who Should Buy Coleman EI Fold N Go 1-Burner Propane Grill?

This compact grill is ideal for solo campers, hikers, or anyone who needs a portable cooking solution for one or two people. It’s perfect for car camping, RV trips, or even as a supplementary burner for tailgating or small outdoor gatherings where space is at a premium. Workshop professionals needing a quick way to heat up lunch or boil water in remote locations will also find it incredibly useful.

Individuals looking to cook elaborate meals for a crowd, or those who require very precise temperature control for gourmet cooking, should probably look at larger, more feature-rich grills. Those who frequently camp in extremely windy conditions might also want to consider a model with better wind protection, though a simple portable windscreen can often mitigate this.

For optimal use, I’d recommend ensuring you have a good supply of standard 1lb propane canisters. A small grilling spatula and tongs, along with a heat-resistant glove, are also practical additions to any portable cooking setup.

Conclusion on Coleman EI Fold N Go 1-Burner Propane Grill

The Coleman EI Fold N Go 1-Burner Propane Grill delivers on its promise of portable convenience and simple functionality. It’s a no-frills, dependable unit that excels at basic grilling tasks for individuals or small groups. The ease of ignition, straightforward cleanup, and compact design make it an attractive option for anyone prioritizing portability and simplicity in their outdoor cooking setup.

Considering its price point, the value proposition is strong. You get a reliable, easy-to-use grill that performs its core functions well, with thoughtful features like the dishwasher-safe components.

I would personally recommend this grill to anyone who fits the profile of a solo adventurer, a casual camper, or anyone needing a compact, easy-to-manage cooking appliance for occasional use. If your needs are basic and portability is key, this Coleman unit is a solid choice that won’t disappoint.