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Choosing from the best charcoal grill brands can be tough. The Weber Original Kettle Charcoal Grill is the top pick because of its durable-plated steel cooking grate and its ability to hold up to 13 burgers. The Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill is a great value choice, offering similar features but without a few premium upgrades. You may have to sacrifice some advanced features to save money.
Size is a key factor in picking the right grill. You might want a compact grill for small spaces or a larger one for family gatherings. This page helps you understand the different options available, guiding you through the best choices based on your needs.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Charcoal Grills Reviewed in Detail
Explore these top charcoal grill picks to find the right fit for your grilling adventures.
1. Editor’s Choice
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, known for its reliability and performance. With a 22-inch cooking area, it can hold up to 13 burgers. The durable-plated steel cooking grate is designed for frequent use and long-lasting performance. Compared to other grills, this model excels in ease of use and cleanup, thanks to its One-Touch cleaning system.
When compared to the Weber Original Kettle Premium, you’ll notice they share similar features. However, the Premium model has extra features like a built-in thermometer, which many users appreciate. The Original Kettle is simpler, making it great for beginners or those who want a straightforward grilling experience.
One honest limitation of this model is its cooking area size. For large gatherings, you may need to grill in batches. It suits small to medium families best, but larger groups might need a bigger grill.
Pros
- Durable-plated steel cooking grate.
- Easy ash cleanup with One-Touch system.
- Holds up to 13 burgers at once.
Cons
- Limited cooking area for big groups.
- No built-in thermometer.
Best for: Small to medium families. Not ideal for: Large gatherings.
A dependable choice for everyday grilling experiences.
2. Best Splurge
Weber® Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Black
- This premium 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 a removable aluminized, high-capacity ash catcher allowing for efficient and less frequent removal of ash from the bottom of the grill
- 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 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
- Real-Time Temperature Monitoring: Built-in Lid Thermometer takes the guesswork out of grilling, displaying the internal temperature of your black charcoal and BBQ grill
- 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
The Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill offers enhanced features for serious grillers. The 22-inch cooking area is the same as the Original model, but it includes a built-in thermometer. This feature helps you monitor cooking temperatures easily. It also has a better ash-cleaning system, making maintenance straightforward.
Compared to the standard Original Kettle, the Premium model’s thermometer is a significant upgrade. This is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy precise cooking. However, both models deliver excellent performance and are made from durable materials.
One downside is that the Premium model comes at a higher price point. If you’re on a tight budget, you might shy away from this choice. It fits well for dedicated grillers looking for more control but may not be necessary for casual users.
Pros
- Built-in thermometer for accurate cooking.
- Enhanced ash-cleaning system.
- Durable construction for frequent use.
Cons
- Higher price compared to the Original model.
- May have features not needed by casual users.
Best for: Serious grillers wanting more control. Not ideal for: Casual users or those on a budget.
The perfect choice if you seek precision and ease of use.
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 is a versatile charcoal grill with a side front table. It offers a generous 443 sq. in. cooking area, allowing you to grill larger cuts of meat. The porcelain-enameled steel wire grates provide durability and even heat distribution. This model also features an air vent for controlling heat.
When compared to other models, the CC1830V stands out for its cooking space and added side table, which is great for preparation. However, it lacks some advanced features present in other grills. Its design is practical but may not have the same build quality as Weber grills.
An honest limitation is that it can take longer to start compared to simpler kettle grills. This grill works best for those who enjoy outdoor cooking and need space for larger meals, but it may not suit everyone, especially those who prefer quick grilling sessions.
Pros
- Large 443 sq. in. cooking area.
- Porcelain-enameled steel grates for durability.
- Includes a side front table for prep.
Cons
- Longer startup time compared to kettle grills.
- Build quality not as high as Weber models.
Best for: Outdoor cooks needing more space. Not ideal for: Quick and easy grilling enthusiasts.
Ideal for grilling larger meals outdoors with added prep space.
4. Best Budget
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 Grill is designed for serious barbecue enthusiasts. It combines a charcoal grill with an offset smoker, giving you 823 square inches of cooking space. This setup allows you to smoke and grill simultaneously, making it versatile for outdoor cooking. The high-quality porcelain-enameled grates ensure even cooking and durability.
Compared to other charcoal grills, this model offers more cooking versatility. The offset smoker feature is great for those who want to explore smoking meats. However, it requires more space and a larger setup than standard grills.
One limitation is its size, which makes it less portable. This grill is best for backyard use or larger outdoor events. It may not fit comfortably in small spaces or for users who need a compact grill.
Pros
- 823 sq. in. cooking area with smoker.
- Porcelain-enameled grates for even cooking.
- Versatile design for grilling and smoking.
Cons
- Requires a large outdoor space.
- Less portable than standard grills.
Best for: Experienced grillers who enjoy smoking. Not ideal for: Small spaces or limited portability.
A versatile option for outdoor cooking and barbecuing enthusiasts.
5. Best Lightweight
Weber® Jumbo Joe Premium Compact Charcoal Grill, 22‑Inch, Black
- The Weber Jumbo Joe Premium Charcoal Grill has a durable-plated, steel cooking grate, crafted from premium steel for enhanced durability; Cooking grate offers a resilient surface that stands up to the demands of frequent grilling
- 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
- Regulate Airflow: Experience grilling precision with charcoal grill’s rust-resistant aluminum dampers, engineered for longevity and precision control; These dampers allow you to effortlessly regulate airflow
- Aluminum Ash Catcher: Designed for quick and convenient ash disposal, the grill’s catcher is crafted from durable aluminum, ensuring longevity and resistance to corrosion
- Lid Hook and Handle: Slide your outdoor charcoal grill‘s lid onto the angled lid hook to avoid placing it on the ground; Lid handle has heat shield for safe and comfortable handling, especially when checking or adjusting food on the grill
- Grill Portability and Size: All-weather wheels provide easy mobility for the grill, allowing you to move it effortlessly to different locations in your outdoor space; This grill holds up to thirteen burgers made with a Weber burger press
The Weber Jumbo Joe Premium Compact Charcoal Grill is a smart choice for those with limited outdoor space. It features a 22-inch cooking grate that is durable and effective for grilling. The porcelain-enameled lid ensures heat retention, which aids cooking performance. This model is lightweight, making it easy to transport to picnics or tailgating events.
When compared to larger models, the Jumbo Joe is compact without sacrificing quality. It still delivers excellent grilling results, making it suitable for small gatherings. However, its smaller size limits the number of items you can cook at once.
The tradeoff with this model is the cooking area size. It’s designed for smaller groups and may not suffice for bigger events. It fits well for individuals or couples who want a portable grilling solution.
Pros
- Compact design for easy transport.
- Durable porcelain-enameled lid for heat retention.
- Effective 22-inch cooking grate.
Cons
- Limited cooking space for larger groups.
- Not suited for heavy cooking.
Best for: Individuals or couples needing portability. Not ideal for: Large gatherings or heavy grilling.
A compact option for easy outdoor grilling.
6. Runner-Up
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 offers ample cooking space for backyard events. With around 500 sq. in. of cooking area, it allows you to grill multiple items simultaneously. The porcelain-enameled steel wire grates provide durability and are easy to clean. A side table adds convenience for food prep.
Compared to other grills, DNKMOR’s size makes it suitable for larger gatherings. The added side table is a practical feature, allowing for easier meal preparation. However, it does lack some advanced temperature control options found in premium models.
A limitation to consider is that the build quality may not match more established brands. This grill is best for casual grillers who want a larger cooking area, but serious users may prefer more sturdy options.
Pros
- Generous 500 sq. in. cooking area.
- Includes a convenient side table.
- Porcelain-enameled grates for durability.
Cons
- Build quality may not match premium brands.
- Limited temperature control features.
Best for: Casual grillers needing extra space. Not ideal for: Serious grillers seeking advanced features.
A practical choice for casual gatherings and larger meals.
7. Best Premium
SUNLIFER Charcoal BBQ Grills Outdoor: Spacious Barrel Barbecue Grill
- Expansive Cooking Surface: With 589.32 sq. in. total cooking space, our charcoal bbq grill is ideal for 5–6 BBQ lovers. The main cooking grill includes a convenient lift-up grate for easy coal refills, while the warming rack keeps food hot. This backyard grill makes your outside grills outdoor cooking smooth and satisfying
- Easy Mobility & Convenient Storage: Move your barrel grills charcoal easily to your backyard, campsite with two wheels and a sturdy handle. Foldable front table, side shelf, and bottom rack offer 643.25 sq. in. of space, perfect for condiments, charcoal, and tools. The patio grill that makes prep easy and effortless
- Precision Heat Control: Featuring 4 air vents and an accurate thermometer, this charcoal barrel grill gives you full control over airflow and temperature. Use the ash holder for better oxygen flow and easy cleanup – perfect for mastering your bbq grill charcoal
- Dual Function Grill & Smoker Combo: Add a foil water pan and transform this charcoal grill into a grill and smoker combo. Whether you’re slow-smoking ribs or searing steaks, the lid design and airflow system support perfect charcoal barbecue grill versatility
- Convenient Charcoal Refueling & Ash Management: The center-lift charcoal access grate lets you add coal without removing the whole rack – no interruptions while grilling. Combined with an easy-clean ash holder, this coal grill keeps your cookout flowing smoothly and cleaning hassle-free
The SUNLIFER Charcoal BBQ Grill offers an expansive cooking surface of 589.32 sq. in. This makes it suitable for cooking for larger groups. The main cooking grill includes a lift-up grate, which allows for easy coal refills. It also features a warming rack to keep food hot while the rest cooks.
Compared to other models, the SUNLIFER excels in cooking space and user-friendly features. The lift-up grate is particularly useful for managing charcoal without interrupting grilling. However, its overall build quality may not be as strong as Weber models.
A notable limitation is its potential lack of durability over time. This grill works best for events with multiple guests but may not endure heavy usage as well as more durable brands.
Pros
- Large 589.32 sq. in. cooking area.
- Convenient lift-up grate for easy coal access.
- Warming rack for keeping food hot.
Cons
- Build quality may not match premium options.
- Potential durability issues over time.
Best for: Large gatherings needing more cooking space. Not ideal for: Heavy-duty outdoor cooking.
A spacious option for entertaining larger groups.
8. Most Versatile
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 well-rounded option for budget-conscious buyers. It features an 18-inch cooking grate that still provides effective grilling capabilities without breaking the bank. Users appreciate its ease of assembly and overall design, making it a popular choice among new grillers.
When compared to larger kettle grills, its size may limit how much you can cook at once. However, it still produces good results for small gatherings. Its compact size makes it easy to store or transport.
One limitation is that it may not withstand heavy usage as well as larger, pricier models. It fits well for those looking for a basic grill but may not satisfy serious grilling enthusiasts.
Pros
- Compact 18-inch design for easy storage.
- Good assembly instructions for beginners.
- Affordable option for casual grilling.
Cons
- Limited cooking area for larger groups.
- Less durable than larger models.
Best for: Casual grillers on a budget. Not ideal for: Frequent users needing durability.
A budget-friendly choice for simple grilling needs.
Charcoal Grills Compared Side by Side
The table below compares the best charcoal grill brands. Each column shows key features, like size and cooking area. Look closely at the size and cooking area to match your grilling needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Weber® Original Kettle Charcoal Grill | Editor's Choice | WEBER | $149 | Check |
| 2 | Weber® Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill | Best Splurge | WEBER | $219 | Check |
| 3 | Royal Gourmet CC1830V 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill with Side… | Best Compact | Royal Gourmet Corp | $115.61 | Check |
| 4 | Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker | Best Budget | Royal Gourmet Corp | $143.75 | Check |
| 5 | Weber® Jumbo Joe Premium Compact Charcoal Grill | Best Lightweight | Weber | $98 | Check |
| 6 | Charcoal Grill with Side Table,Barrel BBQ Grill 500 Sq In… | Runner-Up | DNKMOR | $89.99 | Check |
| 7 | SUNLIFER Charcoal BBQ Grills Outdoor: Spacious Barrel… | Best Premium | SUNLIFER | $139.99 | Check |
| 8 | GRILIFE 18 inch Kettle Charcoal BBQ Grill | Most Versatile | GRiliFE | $50.96 | Check |
| 9 | Royal Gourmet CD1824M 24-Inch Charcoal Grill | — | Royal Gourmet Corp | $143.99 | Check |
| 10 | SUNLIFER Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker: Charcoal Barbecue… | — | SUNLIFER | $129.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Charcoal Grills
Consider Cooking Area Size
When choosing a charcoal grill, cooking area size is important. For a small family, a grill with 300-400 sq. in. of cooking space should be enough. For larger gatherings, look for grills with 500 sq. in. or more. This allows you to grill multiple items at once, saving you time.
Check the Material of the Grate
The material of the cooking grate affects durability and heat retention. Stainless steel and porcelain-coated grates are popular choices. They help prevent food from sticking and are easier to clean. Make sure to choose a grill with a high-quality grate for better grilling results.
Look for Cleaning Features
Cleaning is an essential part of grilling. Some grills come with features like ash catchers or one-touch cleaning systems. These make the cleanup process easier and quicker. If you grill often, look for these features to save time and effort.
Evaluate Portability
If you plan to take your grill to different locations, portability matters. Lightweight grills are easier to move but might sacrifice cooking space. If you need a grill for tailgating or camping, consider a compact model that doesn’t take up much space.
Think About Additional Features
Extra features can enhance your grilling experience. Look for options like side tables for prep space or built-in thermometers for temperature control. These additions can make grilling more convenient and enjoyable, so consider what features fit your style.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
Our data comes from various online reviews, user feedback, and manufacturer specifications. We surveyed over 30 charcoal grill models to gather detailed information. This ensured we covered a range of options for consumers.
How we built this shortlist
We carefully selected the top models based on features, user ratings, and popularity. Each grill was compared on cooking area, material, and ease of use. We focused on the most relevant specifications that buyers look for.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded grills with poor user ratings and those with limited cooking space. Any model that did not offer adequate cleaning features was also removed. This helped narrow our list to reliable and practical choices.
What we did not do
We did not perform hands-on testing or lab measurements. Our review is based solely on data collection and analysis from credible sources. No personal experiences were included, ensuring a neutral approach.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated regularly to ensure information stays current. We revisit our sources every few months to check for new products and user feedback. This keeps our recommendations relevant and trustworthy.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best charcoal grill brands?
The best charcoal grill brands include Weber, Royal Gourmet, and DNKMOR. Each brand has unique features that cater to different grilling needs.
How do I clean a charcoal grill?
To clean a charcoal grill, wait for it to cool, then remove the ashes. Use a grill brush to scrub the grates and wipe down surfaces with soap and water. Some models have easy-clean features for convenience.
What is the best way to start charcoal?
The best way to start charcoal is to use a chimney starter. This method allows for even heating and quicker ignition. Avoid using lighter fluid for a cleaner taste.
How often should I replace my charcoal grill?
You should replace your charcoal grill when it shows signs of rust, damage, or poor heat retention. Regular maintenance can extend its life, but parts do wear out over time.
Can I use wood with a charcoal grill?
Yes, you can use wood with a charcoal grill for added flavor. Use wood chunks or chips to create smoke. This enhances the taste of your grilled food significantly.
What to look for
Cooking Performance
Cooking performance is key when choosing a charcoal grill. Look for grills that reach high temperatures quickly and maintain consistent heat. A good grill should allow you to sear meat effectively while providing even cooking throughout.
Durability and Build Quality
Durability is essential for a grill that lasts. Choose models made from high-quality materials, like stainless steel or heavy-duty steel. These materials resist rust and wear over time, ensuring your grill remains reliable for many seasons.
Ease of Use
Ease of use can make grilling more enjoyable. Look for models with features like adjustable vents for temperature control and easy ash cleanup. These features simplify the grilling process, allowing you to focus on cooking.
Portability
Portability is important for those who want to grill on the go. Compact designs and lightweight grills are easier to transport. If you plan to take your grill to different locations, consider how it folds or fits in your vehicle.
Price vs. Features
When shopping for a charcoal grill, consider the balance between price and features. More expensive models often offer better materials and additional features. However, budget-friendly options can still provide great performance. Evaluate what you really need.
Shopping around? We have 21 more charcoal grill guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ENERGY STAR dishwashers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- ENERGY STAR refrigerators ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
About the author
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