Error Log Dashboard Widget is robust zero-configuration and low-memory way to keep an eye on error log.
Log file path is read from error_log PHP setting, which can be configured by WordPress or otherwise. Additional logs can be monitored by filtering list on error_log_widget_logs hook.
Filter error_log_widget_lines hook to control how many lines you want to see.
Only users with manage_options capability (Administrators) will see the widget. You can change this by filtering error_log_widget_capability hook.