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Choosing the best charcoal bbq grill can be hard. Royal Gourmet CC1830S is our top pick because it has 823 square inches of cooking space. This size makes it great for big meals or gatherings. The best budget option is the GRILIFE 18 inch Kettle Charcoal BBQ Grill, which is smaller and saves you money. You give up some cooking space with this choice.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Grills Reviewed in Detail
Here are our top picks for the best charcoal bbq grill to help you decide.
1. Top Pick
Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker, Outdoor Camping
- 823 Square Inches: Includes 475 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates, 151 sq. in. chrome-plated warming rack and 197 sq. in. offset smoker
- Tasty Smoke Flavors: The offset smoker is firmly attached to charcoal grill to ensure good circulation of heat and smoke. Easy to open side door to add charcoal and remove ashes; air vent stokes fire instantly
- Adjustable Lifting Rack: The two-level height-adjustable charcoal pan ensures enhanced control over cooking temperatures by adjusting the distance between the food and the heat source
- Temperature Monitor: The easy-to-read lid thermometer helps you maintain the ideal cooking temperature for a wide range of foods, giving you confidence in your grilling results
- Ample Space: Front and side tables offer workspace for seasonings and grilling tools. The bottom shelf provides extra storage space and holds up to only 20 lb. accessories when they are evenly distributed
The Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker is a top pick for grilling enthusiasts. Its 823 square inches of cooking space allows you to grill multiple items at once. The porcelain-enameled steel wire grates provide excellent heat retention, while the attached offset smoker enhances flavor. Compared to other grills, like the GRILIFE, it offers a larger cooking area and better features for serious cooks. However, it is heavier and less portable than smaller grills, making it less ideal for those who need to move it frequently.
Pros
- Large cooking area of 823 square inches.
- Porcelain-enameled cooking grates ensure durability.
- Includes offset smoker for added flavor.
- Easy side door access for adding charcoal.
Cons
- Heavier and less portable than smaller grills.
- Setup may require more space.
- Can take longer to heat up.
Best for: Serious grillers who want a large cooking area. Not ideal for: Those needing a lightweight, portable grill.
A great choice for passionate grillers who want room to cook.
2. Best Splurge
Weber® Spirit® E-210 Gas Grill, Outdoor Cooking, Small Propane Grill, Black
- The Black Weber Spirit E-210 Grill has a 10-year limited warranty; Weber Works side rails fit snap-on accessories (sold separately) such as a Bottle Holder, extra Tool Hooks, and Flexible Lighting to give you more room at the grill
- Precise, Consistent Heat: Outdoor propane grill gets to temp quickly and cooks food evenly across the grates; Porcelain-enameled, cast-iron grates retain heat evenly, are easy to clean, and built to last
- Snap-Jet Ignition: Easily light burners with one hand; Simply press and turn the knobs to ignite each burner individually; Stainless steel Flavorizer Bars catch and vaporize juices, boosting grilled flavor and funneling grease away from burners
- Durable Utility: Cast-aluminum cook box stands up to the elements and prevents rusting and peeling; Four tool hooks keep spatulas and tongs handy; Cabinet with door hides propane tank and grilling accessories; Grill’s all-weather wheels are durable
- Grease Management System: This system has a pull-out grease tray and large drip pan; Slides out for quick and easy cleaning and maintenance; Keeps outdoor grilling fun, straightforward, and mess-free
- Warming Rack and Side Tables: Propane grill’s warming rack keeps food warm, toasts buns, or even grills smaller food items while the main course finishes grilling below; Hammertone metal side tables are scratch-resistant and provide extra space
The Weber® Spirit® E-210 Gas Grill is our best splurge option. It features a sleek design and comes with a 10-year limited warranty, giving you confidence. This model offers consistent heating, making it easy to cook evenly. However, it doesn’t fit into the charcoal category, which may disappoint those looking for a true charcoal grill experience. If you’re set on charcoal, consider the Royal Gourmet CC1830V for a comparable price. It offers a good balance of features and affordability.
Pros
- Reliable 10-year limited warranty.
- Quick to heat and cook food evenly.
- Compatible with various accessories for customization.
- Side rails provide extra space for tools.
Cons
- Not a charcoal grill, so it misses the smoky flavor.
- May require extra accessories for full functionality.
- Less cooking area compared to some charcoal options.
Best for: Those willing to invest in quality and convenience. Not ideal for: Fans of traditional charcoal grilling.
A high-end option for those who prefer gas grilling.
3. Best Compact
Royal Gourmet CC1830V 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill with Side Front Table
- Main Smoking Area: 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates with 184 sq. in. chrome-plated steel wire warming rack offer enough space to cook large cuts of meat.
- Heat Control: Close the side air vent to cut off the oxygen flow, thus to help extinguish coals and adjust the smoke stack for extra heat control.
- Adjustable Fire Grates: Raise or lower charcoal pan to 2 different heights with lifting handles in order to control the distance between charcoal and food.
- Lid-mounted Gauge: Monitor the inner temperature fluctuations and check the timely point to smoke meat and vegetables.
- Easy Dump: The adjustable fire grate is an easy-to-dump ash pan for quick and mess-free cleanup after cooking.
The Royal Gourmet CC1830V 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill is a solid choice for those looking for a compact option. With 443 square inches of main cooking space, it still provides ample room for big cuts of meat. The adjustable side air vent allows you to control the heat effectively. This grill competes well against the larger Royal Gourmet CC1830S but lacks some of its features, like the side smoker. Its best fit is for casual grillers who need a reliable performer without excessive space requirements.
Pros
- Main cooking area of 443 square inches.
- Features adjustable side air vent for heat control.
- Porcelain-enameled cooking grates for durability.
- Compact design saves space.
Cons
- Smaller cooking area than some larger models.
- Limited additional features compared to top picks.
- Less suitable for large gatherings.
Best for: Casual grillers with limited space. Not ideal for: Serious grillers needing maximum cooking area.
A compact grill that performs well for its size.
4. Best Value
Weber® Original Kettle Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Black
- This Weber kettle grill has space to hold up to 13 burgers made with a Weber burger press; The durable-plated steel cooking grate, crafted from premium steel, offers a resilient surface that stands up to the demands of frequent grilling
- Easy Ash Cleanup: The One-Touch cleaning system included in the black charcoal grill has an aluminized steel ash catcher, allowing for efficient removal of ash from the bottom of the grill and ensuring longevity and resistance to corrosion
- Durability and Flavor Retention: Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl are engineered to withstand high temperatures and retain heat; Bowl and lid combination on outdoor grill and BBQ resist rust and won’t peel
- Glass-Reinforced Nylon Handles: Kettle grill’s handles were crafted with precision and durability in mind; Reinforced with high-quality, glass-infused nylon, ensuring they can withstand the demands of frequent use and exposure to heat
- Longevity and Control: Rust-resistant aluminum damper offers effortless regulation of airflow; Angled lid hook allows you to hang the lid while grilling; All-weather wheels provide easy mobility; Tool hooks help you store grilling tools
- Warranty: This Weber Original Kettle Charcoal grill has a 10 year limited warranty
The Weber® Original Kettle Charcoal Grill is a classic choice for many grill lovers. With enough space for 13 burgers, it provides plenty of room for smaller gatherings. Its durable-plated steel cooking grate offers lasting performance. It stands out for its easy ash cleanup system, making maintenance simpler compared to other models. While it may not have the additional features of the Royal Gourmet models, it is a favorite for those who appreciate simplicity and reliability. However, its cooking space may not be sufficient for larger parties.
Pros
- Cooks up to 13 burgers at once.
- Durable-plated steel cooking grate.
- One-Touch cleaning system for easy ash removal.
- Classic design that many grillers love.
Cons
- Limited cooking area for larger gatherings.
- No side features like smokers.
- Assembly can be a bit tricky.
Best for: Casual grillers who enjoy classic designs. Not ideal for: Those needing a large cooking area.
A reliable choice for lovers of traditional grilling.
5. Best for Small Spaces
Ninja FG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill and Air Fryer, 4 Qt Capacity, Black/Silver
- SMART INDOOR GRILL & AIR FRYER COMBO: The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill is an all-in-one indoor electric grill and air fryer oven that sears, sizzles, and crisps. Ideal for countertop use, it combines grilling and air frying with Ninja’s Smart Cook System and dual-sensor thermometer for perfect results every time
- CYCLONIC GRILLING TECHNOLOGY: Enjoy authentic BBQ grill flavor indoors with 500°F cyclonic air that char-grills food evenly on the grill grate. Get delicious sear marks with no need for outdoor grills or smokers. Perfect for apartments or indoor smokeless grill cooking.
- SMART COOK SYSTEM WITH THERMOMETER: The Foodi Smart Thermometer uses 4 protein presets and 9 doneness levels to take the guesswork out of cooking. Whether it’s rare steak or well-done chicken, get it right every time — no more undercooked meals or overcooking.
- XL CAPACITY FAMILY SIZED CAPACITY: The grill grate fits up to 6 steaks or 24 hot dogs — cook mains and sides all at once. Ideal for large air fryer needs, meal prepping, or family dinners. Also fits well into outdoor kitchen alternatives and tailgating.
- 6-IN-1 VERSATILITY: More than just a grill! This Ninja air fryer also air crisps, roasts, bakes, broils, and dehydrates. From juicy burgers to crispy wings, it replaces multiple appliances. A must-have for fans of air fryer ovens and multi-cookers.
The Ninja FG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill and Air Fryer is an interesting option. While it adds flexibility, it may not be the best choice if you want a true charcoal experience. This model excels at indoor cooking, offering an air fryer and smart cooking system. However, it lacks the distinct smoky flavor of outdoor charcoal grilling. If you want a versatile kitchen gadget, this is a good pick. For hardcore grillers, stick with a traditional charcoal grill like the Weber Original Kettle.
Pros
- Versatile 6-in-1 functionality for indoor cooking.
- Smart Cook System for perfect results.
- Compact design fits well on countertops.
- Quick cooking with air frying capability.
Cons
- Not a charcoal grill, missing the unique flavor.
- Best suited for indoor use only.
- Limited grilling space compared to outdoor grills.
Best for: Those seeking versatility in cooking. Not ideal for: Fans of outdoor charcoal grilling.
A versatile indoor appliance, not a true charcoal grill.
6. Best Budget
GRILIFE 18 inch Kettle Charcoal BBQ Grill, Perfect Barbecue Gift, Black
- Value for Money BBQ Grill – This 18-inch charcoal grill packs great features and solid performance for its price, guaranteeing a satisfying grilling experience. It’s designed to deliver excellent value, making it a top pick for budget-conscious users.
- Easy Assembly – Our design team made assembly a breeze. One person can get it set up in just 15 minutes, so you can start grilling and having fun in no time.
- Moderate-Sized Spacious Grilling Area – With a cooking surface ideal for 1–4 people, this grill excels at small family barbecues. It’s also perfect for daily meals or lazy weekend grills, making sure you get tasty grilled food whenever you want.
- Optimal Setup, Easy to Move – Our portable grill has high-quality wheels and handles, making it a breeze to move around. Backyard, park, camping trip, beach—wherever you go, you can haul it effortlessly with no worries. It’s the perfect pick for all your grilling needs.
- Easy Ash Cleanup, No More Mess – Our grill has a built-in ash collector at the bottom that catches all the ash, crud, and gunk. Keeps the grilling area clean—no mess, and cleanup’s a breeze.
- A BBQ Gift for Everyone – As an entry-level grill, it’s ideal for gifting. Anyone can start grilling extremely easily—no experience or complex steps needed. Just set up simply, add ingredients, and enjoy delicious grilled food right away. It’s hassle-free for everyone.
The GRILIFE 18 inch Kettle Charcoal BBQ Grill is a great budget-friendly choice. This 18-inch grill packs essential features for a satisfying grilling experience. With easy assembly and solid performance, it’s perfect for beginners or casual grillers. Compared to larger models, it saves space and is easier to transport. However, this smaller size means you might not cook as much food at once. If you often host gatherings, consider a larger option like the Royal Gourmet CC1830S.
Pros
- Budget-friendly option with great value.
- Easy assembly for beginners.
- Compact size for limited spaces.
- Good performance for casual grilling.
Cons
- Limited cooking area compared to larger grills.
- May not be sufficient for large meals.
- Less durable materials than pricier options.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers and beginners. Not ideal for: Those needing larger cooking areas.
A solid budget grill for casual use.
7. Best for Beginners
Charcoal Grill with Side Table,Barrel BBQ Grill 500 Sq In Cooking Area
- 【Sufficient Cooking Area】DNKMOR outdoor charcoal grill with about 500 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates and chrome-plated warming rack. Large cooking surface caters for big parties or events.
- 【Enamel Grilling Racks】Enamel process is widely used in outdoor grill industry. Our grilling grates are made of enamel, and the warm rack is chrome plated, which are both resistant to high temperature and easy to clean.
- 【Heat Control & Adjustable Pan】Lid-Mounted thermometer gauge helps you monitor the temperature while cooking. With 4-levels height-adjustable charcoal pan ensures better heat control and holds up to 4.5 lb. of coal
- 【Easy to move & With Side Table】 The outdoor grill has two wheels and a side handle, enabling you to move your barbecue with ease to where you need it. Big side table offers more space for placing seasoning and preparing; the bottom shelf provides additional storage space for large grilling tools.
- 【Our Service】DNKMOR provides you with professional customer service both before and after your purchase of charcoal grill. Please feel free to contact us, we will solve your problem within 24 hours, you can rest assured that your investment will be protected.
The DNKMOR Charcoal Grill with Side Table is a versatile option for those who enjoy outdoor cooking. Offering about 500 square inches of cooking area, it can handle bigger meals. The addition of a side table provides extra space for preparation and tools. While it doesn’t have the same brand recognition as Royal Gourmet, it offers good features for outdoor gatherings. However, the materials could be more durable, which may affect long-term use. For serious grillers, a more recognized brand might be a better fit.
Pros
- Generous cooking area of 500 square inches.
- Includes a side table for extra preparation space.
- Affordable option for outdoor grilling.
- Porcelain-enameled grates for durability.
Cons
- Less durable materials compared to top brands.
- Brand recognition is lower than competitors.
- Some users report difficulty with assembly.
Best for: Outdoor gatherings with multiple guests. Not ideal for: Serious grillers looking for high durability.
A good choice for social grilling experiences.
8. Best Lightweight
SUNLIFER Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker: Charcoal Barbecue Grills
- Precise Temperature Management: Achieve grilling excellence with the accurate built-in thermometer in the main grill chamber. Our grill-smoker combo lets you monitor the temperature without opening the lid, ensuring your food cooks under optimal conditions. Adjustable air vents on both the grill and smoker regulate airflow and smoke intensity, making it easy to control the heat whether you’re slow-cooking ribs or searing steaks
- Optimal Cooking Area: Enhance your outdoor grilling with our compact charcoal grill with smoker. Boasting a total cooking surface of 512 sq. in., this grill is ideal for intimate family cookouts or small gatherings. Its dual-chamber design features a primary grill & offset smoker, allowing for both grilling and smoking—a superb choice for a diverse range of meats and vegetables. Revel in the flexibility and sufficient space to demonstrate your grilling skills
- Effortless Mobility and Storage: Designed with convenience in mind, this portable charcoal grill boasts cart-style wheels and stainless steel handles for easy movement around your patio or garden. Two spacious storage areas, including a cleanable metal front shelf and a bottom shelf, offer 467 sq. in. of space for your grilling essentials. Whether it’s charcoal or your favorite grilling tools, everything is within arm’s reach
- Built to Last and Easy to Use: Crafted for durability and simplicity, the outdoor grills & smokers feature rugged grates and a solid connection between the grill and the offset smoker. This ensures efficient heat and smoke flow, enhancing the smoky flavors in your food. Two cooking grates in main chamber make it easy to add charcoal without removing the entire grate. Stainless steel handles ensure safety, preventing burns when opening the lid
- Versatile Features for Various Occasion: Ideal for backyard barbecues, camping trips, or intimate outdoor gatherings, this grill and smoker combo is ready for any event. It includes a warming rack and serves as a feature-rich outdoor grill for cooking and a smoker for achieving authentic smoky flavors. Compact yet efficient, this charcoal BBQ grill is perfect for small groups, making it a must-have for every grilling enthusiast looking to enjoy delicious smoky meals
The SUNLIFER Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker is a solid pick for those who enjoy smoking. It features an accurate built-in thermometer for better cooking control. The adjustable air vents allow for easy temperature management. However, its design may not be as compact as some other grills. This model is great for slower cooking methods but may not suit those who prefer quick grilling. If you want something more versatile, consider the Royal Gourmet CC1830S.
Pros
- Built-in thermometer for precise temperature monitoring.
- Adjustable air vents for fine heat control.
- Great for smoking and grilling.
- Durable design for outdoor use.
Cons
- Larger footprint may be hard to fit in small spaces.
- Not as portable as some other options.
- Requires more time for proper smoking.
Best for: Those who want to smoke meats. Not ideal for: Quick grilling needs.
A good option for smoking enthusiasts who need space.
Grills Compared Side by Side
The following table shows key specs for each grill. Compare cooking area, features, and more. This can help you find the best charcoal bbq grill for your needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker | Top Pick | Royal Gourmet Corp | $143.75 | Check |
| 2 | Weber® Spirit® E-210 Gas Grill | Best Splurge | Weber | $359.98 | Check |
| 3 | Royal Gourmet CC1830V 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill with Side… | Best Compact | Royal Gourmet Corp | $115.61 | Check |
| 4 | Weber® Original Kettle Charcoal Grill | Best Value | WEBER | $149 | Check |
| 5 | Ninja FG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill and Air… | Best for Small Spaces | SharkNinja | $199.99 | Check |
| 6 | GRILIFE 18 inch Kettle Charcoal BBQ Grill | Best Budget | GRiliFE | $50.96 | Check |
| 7 | Charcoal Grill with Side Table,Barrel BBQ Grill 500 Sq In… | Best for Beginners | DNKMOR | $89.99 | Check |
| 8 | SUNLIFER Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker: Charcoal Barbecue… | Best Lightweight | SUNLIFER | $129.99 | Check |
| 9 | Weber® Jumbo Joe Premium Compact Charcoal Grill | — | Weber | $98 | Check |
| 10 | Weber® Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill | — | WEBER | $219 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from trusted sources like grilling experts, user reviews, and manufacturer specifications. Our research included over 30 charcoal grills to ensure a broad range of options.
How we built this shortlist
We focused on factors like cooking area, materials, and features. Each grill was evaluated on its performance and user feedback to create a shortlist of the best options.
What we ruled out and why
Grills with smaller cooking areas or unclear specifications were removed. We also excluded brands with low user ratings or poor customer service feedback, ensuring quality options.
What we did not do
No grills were tested by hand, and we did not take lab measurements. We relied solely on data from our sources to provide accurate information.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated every few months to ensure the information stays current. We will review new products and adjust the recommendations accordingly.
How to Choose Grills
Cooking Area Size
Look for a grill with at least 400 square inches of cooking space for larger meals. If you often cook for many people, choose something like the Royal Gourmet CC1830S with 823 square inches.
Material Quality
Grills made from porcelain-enameled steel or stainless steel are more durable. A stronger material will last longer and stand up to tough weather, making it a better investment.
Temperature Control
Check for models with adjustable air vents. This feature lets you control the heat better, which is important for grilling different types of food properly.
Ease of Cleaning
Look for grills with easy ash cleanup systems. Features like a removable ash pan or a one-touch cleaning system can save you time and effort after cooking.
Portability
If you plan to move the grill often, consider its weight and design. A compact model like the GRILIFE 18 inch Kettle Charcoal BBQ Grill is easier to transport.
What to look for
Cooking Performance
The best charcoal grills offer even heat distribution. Models with larger cooking areas allow you to grill different foods at once. Look for features like adjustable vents for better temperature control.
Durability
Durable materials like porcelain-coated or stainless steel are preferred. These materials resist rust and wear, ensuring your grill lasts through many seasons of use.
User-Friendliness
Ease of assembly and cleanup can greatly affect your grilling experience. Grills with simple designs are easier for beginners. Features like a one-touch cleaning system also help.
Versatility
Some charcoal grills also have side smokers or additional cooking features. This versatility allows you to expand your cooking options. Consider how you plan to use the grill.
Cost vs. Features
Evaluate the features you get for the price. Higher-priced grills can offer better materials and additional features, but there are many budget-friendly options that perform well.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best charcoal bbq grill?
The best charcoal bbq grill is often the Royal Gourmet CC1830S. It has a large cooking area and an offset smoker for added flavor.
How do I control the heat on a charcoal grill?
You can control heat by adjusting the air vents. Closing them decreases oxygen, which lowers the temperature. Opening them increases oxygen, raising the heat.
Are charcoal grills better than gas grills?
Many people prefer charcoal grills for the smoky flavor they add to food. However, gas grills heat up faster and are easier to control.
How often should I clean my charcoal grill?
Clean your grill after every use. Regular cleaning helps prevent buildup and ensures better cooking performance for your next grilling session.
Can I use a charcoal grill indoors?
No, charcoal grills should only be used outdoors. They produce carbon monoxide, which is dangerous in enclosed spaces.
Shopping around? We have 51 more grill guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- USDA Food and Nutrition Information Center U.S. Department of Agriculture
- MedlinePlus food safety MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine
About the author
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