SearcaseSearcase

How We Test

Our reviews start where you cook: parking lots, trailheads, city parks, beaches, balconies, and marinas. Every product is tested against the same mobility-first protocol so our picks work in your real-world scenario.

Test Venues and Controls

  • Venues: campground picnic tables, tailgates, sandy beaches, grassy parks, small balconies, and dockside setups.
  • Controls: ambient temp/humidity recorded; wind measured with an anemometer; cook surfaces leveled or shimmied to simulate uneven ground; fuel type and cylinder weights documented.
  • Instruments: digital scale, tape/callipers, stopwatch, IR thermometer, surface thermometers or thermocouples, anemometer, and leak detection solution.

Core Metrics

  1. Portability Index
  • Components: weight-to-cook-area ratio, packed size/shape (flatness and cubic volume), latch integrity and rattle score.
  • Method: Measure weight and cook area; calculate volume; perform a shake test for rattles; assign sub-scores that roll up to a 0–10 index.
  1. Setup Speed
  • Method: Time from closed case to stable flame. Includes leg/stand deployment and fuel connection. Repeat 3 times; report average and best.
  1. Wind Resilience
  • Method: Test at 10–20 mph using natural wind or controlled fans. Record flame stability, heat loss at grates, and effectiveness of windscreens. Note any flareouts or self-extinguish events.
  1. Fuel Availability Score
  • Method: Map fuel to typical purchase points (e.g., 1 lb propane at gas stations), restrictions (parks/marinas), cold/altitude performance, and multi-fuel flexibility. Score ease of access and reliability.
  1. Heat Performance
  • Preheat time to target temp (e.g., 500°F searing zone) and low-heat simmer control.
  • Distribution: Map grate temps or use the “biscuit test”/toast test for evenness. Log hotspots and usable zones.
  1. Ignition Reliability
  • Method: 10 ignition cycles per session (piezo and manual backup). Record any failures and backup success.
  1. Capacity and Throughput
  • Method: Batch test for 2–6 people (e.g., burgers per round, steak sear then simmer). Document recovery time between batches.
  1. Cleanup and Pack-Away
  • Method: Time to cool, clean, and stow with minimal water/wipes. Check sealed drip/ash management for leaks; evaluate soot/grease containment.
  1. Stability and Surface Protection
  • Method: Sand/grass/uneven ground tests; leg/stand lock integrity; heat-tray or case heat soak checks for quick departures.
  1. Durability and Corrosion
  • Method: Salt air exposure, rain sessions, latch cycling, and abrasion from common pack scenarios. Inspect coatings, fasteners, and grates.

Scoring and Weighting by Scenario

We publish a base score plus scenario weights:

  • Bike/Foot: emphasis on weight, pack volume, latch integrity, fuel access; target <5 lbs when possible.
  • Trunk/Tailgate: emphasis on setup speed, wind resilience, capacity; target <20 lbs.
  • RV/Boat: emphasis on stability, corrosion resistance, fuel availability at marinas/parks, safe stow/cooldown.
  • Small-Space Living: emphasis on storage footprint, ventilation guidance, and low-mess cleanup.

Data Integrity and Repeatability

Each key metric is repeated at least three times; outliers are investigated or discarded with notes. We publish test dates and conditions and retest after product revisions or reader-reported issues.

Safety, Compliance, and Limitations

We check manufacturer clearances, ventilation requirements, and fuel rules for common destinations; we do not override local law. Our tests simulate typical use, not every edge case; extreme weather or misuse can change results. Always follow manufacturer instructions and local regulations.

Bundles and Ecosystem Fit

We evaluate compatible windscreens, griddles, thermometers, cases, and stands for pack fit, rattle control, and setup speed. Recommendations include verified accessory pairings to create true grab-and-go kits.

Questions about our protocol? Email [email protected].