Best Charcoal Grills – Reviews & Buying Guide

Certainly, grills such as gas or pellet types are very convenient to use as they start up without any effort. However, the best charcoal grills are the right choice if you like to have control over everything, from the heat input to the meal output. To demonstrate, these appliances enable you to customize your own cooking temperature. Given that, you can easily adjust the heat level by different placements of the coals.

Furthermore, these machines are very easy to set up as well. In fact, a charcoal grill is a simple appliance with just charcoals at the bottom and a grill on the top. On the same note, repairing these tools is just as easy too. Surprisingly, these grills come at very reasonable prices. So, if you are tight on budget then these utensils will efficiently fulfil your grilling desires.

Although you may find dealing with these black coals troublesome, it is worth the effort. There is no other appliance that does justice to the bbq than the best charcoal grills. Thus, it’s a perfect choice to give your favorites the original crispy, smoky texture. In the end, getting a heavy-duty charcoal grill will give you some great grilling experience in the long run!

10 Best Charcoal Grills

No doubt, the best charcoal grills have their own benefits that make them stand out among the other types. Not to mention, these come in a wide variety too. According to the chef of “Studio Kitchen”, getting the best stainless steel charcoal grill is a wise decision. However, these might cost you a bit more than the others. In the following review, we have presented you with the top 10 charcoal grills at various prices. Thus, whether you want an affordable one or a long-lasting one, you can choose your favourite from this article:

1. Weber Original Kettle 18 Inch Charcoal Grill

Weber is a leading brand in the grilling industry. There is no type of grill that isn’t manufactured by Weber. Similarly, the best charcoal grills also come under its name. Given that, the concerned model is a simple yet charming product. Its compact body with a sleek appearance makes it an attractive addition to your backyard.

Although it may seem to be small it has the capacity to grill about 9 burgers at once. Not only that, it cooks everything to perfection. For that reason, it features a porcelain enamelled lid and bowl. These are designed to be rust-resistant and can also handle high cooking temperatures. As a result, the food is cooked thoroughly.

Moreover, you can also control the temperature with the help of dampers. For example, if you wish to lower the temperature then closing the dampers will stop the airflow and the coals will cool down. Apart from that, these best charcoal grills come with durable grates. Thus, the food doesn’t stick to it, and clean up is easy too. Not to mention, these devices are portable so you can take them anywhere.

PROS

• Reasonable price.
• Durable.
• Easy to assemble.
• The best charcoal grills for small families.
• Portable.
• One-touch cleanup.

CONS

• May be tricky for beginners.
• The lid handle may get hotter.

Conclusion:

This Weber model is a perfect product for small families. In fact, it’s one of the best charcoal grills at great prices. Thus, get one to entertain your dear ones every weekend. If you’re interested to continue your search, have a look at the best small grills that may suit you.

2. Kamado Joe Jr. KJ13RH Charcoal Grill

No doubt, you get a satisfactory feeling when you grill on a beach or at your favorite camping site. For that, you will need the best charcoal grills that are easily transportable. Indeed, the charcoals burning under the open sky give a rich, splendid taste to your BBQs. Given that, this Kamado Joe model can be easily moved to different places and offer you a great grilling time.

According to the author of several barbecue grilling books, “Steven Raichlen” getting a ceramic grill is worthwhile. In other words, these devices are durable and work for a longer time. Similarly, this premium 13.5” model is also a ceramic grill. Also, it comes with a cast iron stand that can be adjusted to different heights.

Despite its sturdy appearance, this machine weighs only 68 pounds. In addition, the comfortable carrying handles allow for easy transport of this light body. Apart from all, it features a cast iron air vent so that you can control the cooking temperature. On the same note, it has a heat-resistant shell that keeps the heat and moisture from escaping. Consequently, these best charcoal grills cook the food perfectly.

PROS

• Worth every penny.
• Versatile.
• Portable.
• Easy to assemble.
• Sturdy.
• Easy to clean.

CONS

• A bit pricey.
• Maybe less durable than the steel ones.

Conclusion:

Kamado Joe is a trustworthy brand that offers durable products with a promise of lifelong services. In fact, it’s a beautiful little machine that is easily portable. Also, it is among the best charcoal grills that serve you mouth-watering dishes.

3. Cuisinart CCG190RB Portable Charcoal Grill

Whenever you shop for kitchen utensils, you will surely come across the name Cuisinart. In the long time of its services, Cuisinart has been manufacturing a lot of different appliances. From juicers to grills, it has provided us with many amazing machines. Similarly, Cuisinart also offers us the best charcoal grills in the market.

If you are a travel enthusiast and love to enjoy your time in different places, then this model will prove to be your travel buddy. As also mentioned in its name, this model is portable and will easily accompany you anywhere you go. For that reason, it comes with a weight of just 2 lbs. With this weight, this machine can be easily stored or carried for your deck parties or tailgating, etc.

Despite being compact, this device features a 150 sq inch cooking grate. As a result of this spacious cooking surface, you can cook a lot of food items at once. Furthermore, this grate is plated with chrome and distributes the heat evenly. The distinct feature of these best charcoal grills is their dual venting system. Consequently, this feature allows you to efficiently control the cooking temperature for desirable results.

PROS

• Very reasonable price.
• Portable.
• 3 secure lid locks lead to safe carrying.
• Easy to assemble.
• Ash catcher for mess free grilling.
• Occupies less space.
• Easy cleanup.

CONS

• The lid handle may get too hot.
• The grid may be flimsy.

Conclusion:

Among the best charcoal grills in Cuisinart, this model is designed for travelling purposes. Also, it is lightweight and easy to carry. Not to mention, it cooks up a sufficient amount as well.

4. Dyna-Glo DGN576SNC-D Dual Zone Premium Charcoal Grill

Although most people think that cooking with the best charcoal grills will be a boring experience, yet with the advancements in them, it is no longer dull at all. To demonstrate, with this Dyna-Glo model, you can enjoy your grilling time in a whole new way.

Given that, this stainless steel machine features a dual chamber. These two chambers with two separate charcoal trays can be adjusted independently. As a result, you can cook multiple meals at different cooking temperatures all at once. Moreover, its removable firebox divider can adjust the cooking area depending on the amount of food you are grilling.

Therefore, with this dynamic machine, you can entertain any number of people within no time. Not only that, but you can also serve some high-quality dishes. Uniquely, its lid and firebox are insulated with a double wall covering. Consequently, no heat escapes and the charcoals efficiently impart smoky flavours to the food. Lastly, the removable ash pan allows for easy cleaning.

PROS

• Worth every penny.
• Large cooking area.
• Easy to assemble.
• Durable.
• Large capacity ash pan.
• Quick and easy cleaning.

CONS

• A bit pricey.
• May not be perfectly sealed.

Conclusion:

This Dyna-Glo model is a perfect choice for serving a large number of people. In fact, its dual chamber feature makes it stand out among the best charcoal grills. Therefore, you can adjust the cooking area however you desire and cook up many dishes at once.

5. Char-Griller E06614 Charcoal Grill

Char Griller has manufactured this model with the purpose of Kamado style grilling in mind. In other words, this product has features that imitate the Kamado grilling by evenly distributing heat and cooking the food thoroughly. In addition, it has air dampers on the top and bottom as well. Resultantly, these will enable you to control the temperature.

Ultimately, this model is one of the best charcoal grills that offer great services at minimum prices. To demonstrate, this machine works on the same level as that expensive grills. Also, it perfectly grills your favourites by using a lesser amount of charcoals as compared to the other typical ones. Even if we are to compare this device with the ceramic grills, then this will stand to be more durable and lighter.

What’s more, this machine is easy to carry on vacations or trips too. Its lightweight and comfortable handles make this machine an ideal choice for camping or grilling in the park etc. Besides, its 153 sq inch cooking surface grills an adequate amount of food. Not to mention, the ash pan makes cleanup an easy chore. You can also check our list of best smokers for beginners.

PROS

• Budget friendly.
• Easy to assemble.
• Portable.
• Great heat retention.
• Durable.
• Easy to clean.

CONS

• The thermometer may not be very accurate.
• May not be properly sealed.

Conclusion:

If you desire to grill your favorite kabobs or buns in Kamado style, then this product is the one for you. Indeed, it’s one of the best charcoal grills that offer such great services at a reasonable price. Not only that, it’s a reliable grill-smoker combo as well.

6. Weber 15501001 Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill

As already seen, Weber never disappoints its customers and always lives up to its name. With the changing times, it has also made advancements in its products. Uniquely, its best charcoal grills are now much more than they used to be. Mostly, people assume that using a charcoal grill will be messy, and that igniting it will take a lot of effort. However, Weber has broken this stereotype with its new and innovative creation.

Surprisingly, with just a push of a button, the coals are fired up and there is no need to struggle with ignition anymore. Thus, its Touch-N-Go feature easily starts the machine with the gas ignition system. Moreover, it has a chabin for storing charcoals. Therefore, these pebbles remain safe from weather conditions and are easy to access by the machine.

Additionally, you can adjust the temperature with the air dampers. In this way, you can change the cooking heat level without the need of lifting the lid. Equally important, you can also set its LCD backlit timer to preheat the device. Not only that, but its built-in thermometer shows you the temperature reading also. And just like the best charcoal grills, its cleanup is easier due to the removable ash catcher too.

PROS

• Worth every penny.
• Easy startup.
• Extra workspace.
• Easy to assemble.
• Solid temperature controls.
• Sturdy.
• Easy cleanup.

CONS

• A bit pricey.
• The lid thermometer may not be perfectly accurate.

Conclusion:

There are many different brands offering the best charcoal grills with strong features. However, some of them take up a lot of effort just to start. Therefore, this model is a unique case as it comes with an easy ignition system and can be lit up with just a button push.

7. Royal Gourmet CD1824AX 24-Inch Charcoal Grill

Royal Gourmet has a history of providing the best charcoal grills that are even admired by professionals. Yes, this brand comes with the strongest of all products that help you achieve the level of a master’s in bbq. Likewise, this model is included in that list too. So, bring out your inner pro and polish your grilling skills with this bbq expert.

Apart from skill, this machine offers other conveniences as well. Of course, a sturdy appliance usually comes with a large capacity. In other words, it has 598 sq inches wide cooking area which includes durable grates and a warming rack. What’s more, it comes with two side dampers too. Consequently, these will enable efficient control over the temperature. Also, the smokestack has an adjustable cap so that there is extra airflow to further increase the heat.

In addition to the dampers, there are other features for heat control as well. For that reason, its charcoal pan comes with holes in it. The height of this pan is adjustable at about 6 different levels too. Apart from that, this best charcoal grill smoker offers the convenience of access to charcoals. Therefore, you can adjust these coals to reach your desired cooking level.

PROS

• Reasonable price.
• Large cooking surface.
• Portable.
• Easy access to charcoals.
• Solid temperature controls.
• Easy to assemble.

CONS

• May be tricky for beginners.

Conclusion:

If you are looking for the best charcoal grills that make excellent BBQs, then this model is the one you need. As a matter of fact, this Royal machine is a professional’s favorite when it comes to grilling on a higher level.

8. PK Grills PKO-SCAX-X Original PK Grill & Smoker

Since its beginning 60 years ago, PK grills and smokers have been winning the hearts of many with their best charcoal grills. Similarly, this model is also one of the reasons for its fame. In fact, it’s one of the award-winning grills that have successfully secured its place at the top. Thus, according to consumers digest and many others, this device has won as the public’s most favorite grilling machine.

Its most attractive feature is its promise of long lasting durability. Uniquely, it’s made of cast aluminium which gives longer life to this machine. In comparison to the steel types, this device is resistant to rust and conducts heat 4 times better than the others. Despite being lightweight, this machine is durable and works strongly.

In addition to durability, these best charcoal grills are portable too. Therefore, you can take it anywhere you desire to hold a bbq event. Not to mention, it comes with a 300 sq inches cooking surface which is sufficient to accommodate large meals. Whether it’s grilling small buns or you wanna roast up a whole turkey, this will do it all.

PROS

• Worth every penny.
• Easy to set up.
• Portable.
• 4 vents for dual cooking zones.
• Versatile.
• Easy to assemble.
• Great heat control.
• Easy cleanup.

CONS

• A bit pricey.
• The lid may not attach securely.

Conclusion:

There is no doubt that this award-winning model is among the best charcoal grills on the market. Its long lasting durability makes it worth the investment. In fact, it claims to serve for about 20 long years.

9. Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Kettleman Charcoal Grill

As already discussed, Char Broil has released several best charcoal grills in the market. These come in different types and serve in their own distinct way. Similarly, this model is also one of them and has marked its place with its unique features.

Conceding that, it comes with a porcelain enamelled grate that evenly distributes the heat and is resistant to rust or corrosion, etc. Uniquely, this grate allows for no-fall-through cooking so that the food is prevented from falling and cooked properly. Although this kettle may seem to be compact from the outside, it offers a 360 sq inch cooking area.

Besides, its 360-degree air inlet allows for enhanced airflow to the inside and aids in even more smooth heat distribution. In addition, a large damper is installed to have efficient control of the cooking heat level. In other words, you can either increase or decrease the inside temperature. Not to mention, its removable ash pan confirms it is among the best charcoal grills with easy cleanup.

PROS

• Reasonable price.
• Easy to assemble.
• Solid temperature controls.
• Sturdy.
• 10-year warranty on firebox.
• 2-year warranty overall.
• Removable ash pan for mess free cleaning.

CONS

• It may get clogged easily.
• May be tricky for beginners.

Conclusion:

This Char Broil model makes sure that you have a comfortable grilling time. For that reason, it is equipped with a porcelain coated grate that cooks the food efficiently and prevents any food item from falling. Not only that, it has other traits that make it stand out among the other best charcoal grills too.

10. Mueller Portable Charcoal Grill and Smoker

We have already seen many different types of charcoal grills. Some of them are either huge or some are smaller. However, you surely haven’t seen something as unique and convenient as this Mueller grill. Surprisingly, it comes with a very distinctive design and works simply with charcoal as its fuel. All in all, it’s a rather rare product among the best charcoal grills so far.

Not only is this machine small in size but comes at very affordable prices too. Although it is called a mini grill, it includes both charcoal and grilling racks. These parts are coated with chrome which allows for a quick cleanup. Furthermore, it offers a 166 sq inches wide cooking area that is enough to grill a sufficient amount of food.

Also, these best charcoal grills are perfect for a take-out. In other words, these compact machines are lightweight and portable. So, you can just fold this device, place it in your car and take this to your camping site or trips or anywhere you go. What’s more, its assembly and disassembly are a lot easier too.

PROS

• Very reasonable price.
• Portable.
• Compact.
• Easy to assemble.
• Lightweight.
• Durable.
• Easy to clean.

CONS

• It doesn’t come with a lid.
• The connecting metal clasp may not be strong.

Conclusion:

No doubt, this model steals the spotlight among the other best charcoal grills out there. It is so convenient to carry because of this foldable trait. Also, it is very easy to assemble and use as well. Not to mention, it can cook an adequate amount with its durable grates. Thus, it’s a very charming machine that anyone would love to have.

Buying Guide for Best Charcoal Grills

After going through our article, you are probably confused as each one of our above-mentioned products stands to be the best charcoal grill. However, you can only end up with one option that is most suitable for you. For that reason, we present you with our buying guide which is made after careful testing and observations. This guide will surely help you in making the right decision. So, let’s get started:

Size:

Even if you have decided to buy a charcoal-type grill, you will still need to choose an appropriate size for your needs. Nonetheless, the best charcoal grills come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Whether you want a compact machine that is easier to carry or a large one for preparing large servings, these appliances come in all ranges. In the end, it all depends on your cooking demands and what size will be most suitable for you. Therefore, whenever you go out to buy one you should keep that factor in mind.

Material:

Whenever you invest in a machine, you should look for its durability and the material it’s made of. Certainly, that material will determine the lifetime of that device and the fact that how long it can withstand frequent usage.

Mostly, the best charcoal grills are made of various kinds of materials. These may comprise cast aluminium material or maybe built of ceramic. Grills that are made of these come at high prices as they can withstand high temperatures and work for a longer time. Conversely, if you desire to buy a cheaper one then chrome and porcelain-coated grills are a better choice.

Temperature Control:

No doubt, handling the best charcoal grills requires skill and effort. Dealing with these black coals to acquire a perfect cooking temperature is indeed a real test of your expertise. However, not everyone is as skilled to control a beast efficiently. Many may mess up at just the accurate placements of charcoals. Therefore, it is necessary to look for an easy temperature control feature before buying.

Although we have already mentioned a few of the products whose temperature control is very easy. Not only that, there is even a machine whose charcoal can be easily ignited with just a button push. Thus, there are undoubtedly many appliances that are no longer difficult to handle. All you need to do is look for them.

Ease of Cleanup:

Many people have this misconception that dealing with charcoal grills is messy and that cleaning it up is very tiring. Although the older models may be difficult to handle, the current versions are a breeze. Yes, the best charcoal grills now come with removable ashtrays that make the cleanup very easy and fast. Thus, you can cook all you want without any stress of mess production and clean the grill in an instant.

Price:

The best charcoal grills come in various price ranges. You can either get a small one at cheaper prices or a sturdy one with extra features at high prices. Nevertheless, it all depends on your pocket. What you want at what price range, all this is decided by your budget range. Hence, choose your appliance at the prices you can afford.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Charcoal Grills

What is the best charcoal grill on the market?

Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill is the best charcoal grill on the market.

Are expensive grills worth it?

Yes, expensive grills are worth it. These come with strong features and work at high power so that the food comes out with perfect flavors and aromas.

What charcoal grills are made in the USA?

PK Grills Griller & Smoker is one of the best charcoal grills that are made in the USA.

Final Thought

In the end, it is clear now that getting the best charcoal grills is worth the investment. Specifically, the modern models are much better and easier to handle. Also, the biggest concern which used to be its cleanup is now an easy chore. Apart from all the conveniences, these come with features that grill up meat or vegetables or whatnot with a signature smoky taste and aroma. What’s more, these can be taken with you to wherever you desire and have a quality grilling time anywhere.