Contents
Choosing the best grill for two people can be challenging. The Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker is our top pick. It offers 823 square inches of cooking space, which is more than enough for a small gathering. The Weber Spirit E-210 is the best value pick. It has a smaller cooking area but saves you money by using propane.
The main tradeoff for buyers is between size and fuel type. Charcoal grills like the Royal Gourmet give richer flavors, while gas grills like the Weber are easier to use. The rest of this guide will help you find the best grill for two people based on your needs.
Paid links. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Prices are pulled live from Amazon and change often. How this works
The Top 8
Top 8 Grills Reviewed in Detail
Here is a closer look at the top grills suitable for two people. Each grill offers unique features.
1. Editor’s Choice
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 perfect for serious grillers. With 823 square inches of cooking space, it allows you to prepare large meals with ease. The strong steel construction ensures durability. This grill also features an offset smoker, adding smoky flavors to your food. Compared to other options, it has a larger cooking area, making it great for inviting friends over. However, charcoal grills require more time and effort to heat up and clean, which might not suit everyone.
The Royal Gourmet is more challenging to use than gas grills like the Weber Spirit E-210. While gas grills heat quickly and offer precise temperature control, charcoal grills provide a unique flavor that many find worth the extra work. This grill is also heavier and less portable, which may not suit casual users or those with limited outdoor space.
Overall, this grill is an excellent choice for those who enjoy traditional grilling methods and want ample cooking space. If you appreciate smoky flavors and have time to grill, this is a solid pick.
Pros
- Large 823 square inches of cooking space.
- Includes an offset smoker for added flavor.
- Durable steel construction for long-lasting use.
- Easy-to-open side door for adding charcoal.
Cons
- Requires time to heat up compared to propane.
- More difficult to clean than gas grills.
- Heavier and less portable.
Best for: Traditional grillers who enjoy smoky flavors. Not ideal for: Those looking for an easy and quick grilling option.
The Royal Gourmet CC1830S is a solid choice for those who love charcoal grilling.
2. Best for Two People
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 a top choice for quick and efficient grilling. It features a compact design and precise heat control. With snap-on accessory side rails, it offers flexibility for your cooking setup. This grill is perfect for small spaces and can cook food evenly, making it a great option for two people. Compared to other choices, it is easy to use and clean. The compact cooking area of 450 square inches is still sufficient for grilling various items.
While larger grills like the Royal Gourmet CC1830S offer more space, they require more effort and time. The Spirit E-210 heats up quickly and maintains consistent temperatures, making it user-friendly. However, the tradeoff is that it doesn’t provide the same smoky flavor as charcoal grills. If you prefer convenience, this grill will meet your needs.
Overall, the Weber Spirit E-210 is a fantastic option for those who value ease of use and efficiency. It’s perfect for busy individuals or small families looking for a dependable grill.
Pros
- Compact design fits well in small spaces.
- Heats up quickly for efficient cooking.
- Precise temperature control for even cooking.
- Includes side rails for additional cooking accessories.
Cons
- Smaller cooking area compared to some charcoal grills.
- Does not provide the smoky flavor of charcoal.
- Limited cooking options without additional accessories.
Best for: Busy individuals who want quick grilling. Not ideal for: Those who prefer the smoky flavor of charcoal grilling.
The Weber Spirit E-210 is the best choice for ease and efficiency in grilling.
3. Most Versatile
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 offers solid performance for grilling enthusiasts. With 443 square inches of cooking space, it’s suitable for cooking various meats and sides. The grill features porcelain-enameled cooking grates for better heat retention. Compared to models like the Royal Gourmet CC1830S, it has a smaller cooking area but remains effective for two people. The closeable air vent allows for temperature control, adding versatility to your grilling.
While this grill performs well, it doesn’t have the same smoking capabilities as other options. Grills like the Royal Gourmet CC1830S have larger smoking areas and extra features. The tradeoff here is between versatility and space. If you want a simple grill for quick meals, this model works nicely.
In summary, the Royal Gourmet CC1830V is a reliable choice for those who need a compact grill for two people. It remains a solid option for easy grilling without too many extra features.
Pros
- Good cooking area of 443 square inches.
- Porcelain-enameled grates for better heat retention.
- Temperature control through adjustable air vent.
- Simple design for easy use.
Cons
- Smaller cooking area than some competitors.
- Fewer features compared to larger models.
- No offset smoker for added flavor.
Best for: Casual grillers needing a simple option. Not ideal for: Those wanting advanced grilling features.
The Royal Gourmet CC1830V is a reliable grill for straightforward cooking.
4. Runner-Up
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 outdoor cooking. With a 22-inch diameter, it can hold up to 13 burgers. This grill features a durable steel cooking grate that withstands frequent use. Compared to other grills, it is easy to set up and provides a traditional grilling experience. The One-Touch cleaning system makes post-cooking maintenance simple.
While some users may prefer more advanced features, the Original Kettle excels in its simplicity. It doesn’t have the added options of models like the Royal Gourmet CC1830S. However, this may suit those who want an uncomplicated grilling experience. It allows for a straightforward approach without sacrificing performance.
In essence, the Weber Original Kettle is perfect for those who appreciate traditional charcoal grilling. Its user-friendly design makes it suitable for all skill levels.
Pros
- Simple design for easy setup and use.
- Holds up to 13 burgers for cooking.
- Durable steel cooking grate.
- Easy One-Touch cleaning system.
Cons
- Limited features compared to modern grills.
- May not suit advanced grilling techniques.
- No additional side tables for prep.
Best for: Grillers who prefer a classic charcoal experience. Not ideal for: Those needing advanced grilling features.
The Weber Original Kettle is a classic grill for traditionalists.
5. Best Heavy-Duty
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 combines multiple cooking methods in one appliance. It offers a 4-quart capacity, making it suitable for meals for two people. The Smart Cook System provides accurate results each time, ensuring your food is perfectly cooked. When compared to outdoor grills, this model shines in versatility. It allows you to grill, air fry, bake, and more, making it a great all-rounder.
While it offers more cooking options, the tradeoff is that it’s an indoor grill. This means you lose the traditional outdoor grilling experience. Outdoor grills, like the Weber Spirit E-210, provide a unique flavor that indoor grills cannot offer. The Ninja is perfect for those who want convenience and variety in their cooking.
To sum up, the Ninja FG551 Foodi Smart XL is an excellent choice for those seeking versatility in their cooking. It suits small households and offers a range of cooking methods.
Pros
- Versatile 6-in-1 cooking functions.
- Smart Cook System for accurate results.
- Compact design fits well on countertops.
- Ideal for indoor cooking.
Cons
- Does not provide the outdoor grilling experience.
- Limited cooking space for larger meals.
- Requires access to a power outlet.
Best for: Indoor cooking enthusiasts wanting versatility. Not ideal for: Those who prefer outdoor grilling.
The Ninja FG551 is perfect for those wanting an all-in-one cooking solution.
6. Best Design
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 packs value into its compact design. It features an 18-inch cooking diameter, making it practical for two people. This charcoal grill emphasizes easy assembly and portability. Compared to larger grills, it’s lightweight and suitable for small spaces. The solid performance at an affordable price makes it appealing for budget-conscious buyers.
Although it offers great features, the cooking area is limited. Larger models may provide more space for grilling various items at once. The tradeoff here is between size and cost. If you need a grill for short outdoor cooking sessions, this model serves well.
Overall, the GRILIFE 18 inch Kettle Charcoal BBQ Grill is a reliable choice for small households. It provides a solid grilling experience without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Compact design for small grilling needs.
- Easy to assemble in minutes.
- Affordable price for budget-conscious users.
- Lightweight for easy transport.
Cons
- Limited cooking area for larger meals.
- May struggle with more significant cooking tasks.
- Less durable than some larger models.
Best for: Budget buyers needing a compact grill. Not ideal for: Those wanting a larger cooking surface.
The GRILIFE 18 inch Kettle is a budget-friendly grill for small spaces.
7. Best Premium
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 a cooking area of 500 square inches. This makes it spacious enough for small gatherings. The grill includes a side table for additional prep space, enhancing its functionality. Compared to other grills, it provides sufficient cooking space while remaining compact. The enamel grilling racks add to its durability.
However, the tradeoff is that while it offers good space, it may not have the premium features of more expensive models. Unlike the Weber Spirit E-210, which has precise temperature control, this model is more basic. If you need a reliable grill without extra frills, this option works well.
In short, the DNKMOR Charcoal Grill is a practical choice for those looking for decent space and functionality. It suits those who need a straightforward grill for everyday use.
Pros
- Adequate cooking area of 500 square inches.
- Includes a side table for prep space.
- Durable enamel grilling racks.
- Compact design for easy storage.
Cons
- Basic features without advanced options.
- May not cook as evenly as gas grills.
- Requires more effort to light charcoal.
Best for: Regular grillers needing extra prep space. Not ideal for: Those seeking advanced grilling features.
The DNKMOR Charcoal Grill is a solid choice for daily grilling needs.
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 offers a unique grilling experience. It includes a built-in thermometer for precise temperature monitoring. The adjustable air vents help control airflow, ensuring even cooking. This grill is suitable for those who enjoy smoking their food along with grilling. Compared to other models, it combines both smoking and grilling capabilities.
However, it may not appeal to those who prefer a straightforward grilling experience. The learning curve associated with smoking can be a bit steep. This grill also has a larger footprint, which may not fit every outdoor space. If you want to experiment with cooking styles, this grill is a good pick.
In summary, the SUNLIFER Charcoal Grill is ideal for adventurous cooks looking to expand their skills. It combines smoking and grilling for a unique culinary experience.
Pros
- Built-in thermometer for accurate temperature control.
- Adjustable air vents for airflow management.
- Combines grilling and smoking functions.
- Durable construction for outdoor use.
Cons
- Learning curve for smoking techniques.
- Larger size may not fit all spaces.
- More time-consuming to set up compared to simpler grills.
Best for: Grillers wanting to explore smoking techniques. Not ideal for: Those looking for an easy grilling experience.
The SUNLIFER Charcoal Grill is great for those ready to experiment with flavors.
Grills Compared Side by Side
The following comparison table shows key details for each grill. Use it to see cooking area, fuel type, and other important specs. This will help you choose the best grill for two people.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker | Editor's Choice | Royal Gourmet Corp | $143.75 | Check |
| 2 | Weber® Spirit® E-210 Gas Grill | Best for Two People | Weber | $359.98 | Check |
| 3 | Royal Gourmet CC1830V 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill with Side… | Most Versatile | Royal Gourmet Corp | $115.61 | Check |
| 4 | Weber® Original Kettle Charcoal Grill | Runner-Up | WEBER | $149 | Check |
| 5 | Ninja FG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill and Air… | Best Heavy-Duty | SharkNinja | $199.99 | Check |
| 6 | GRILIFE 18 inch Kettle Charcoal BBQ Grill | Best Design | GRiliFE | $52.96 | Check |
| 7 | Charcoal Grill with Side Table,Barrel BBQ Grill 500 Sq In… | Best Premium | 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 manufacturer websites, user reviews, and grilling expert blogs. This ensured we had accurate details about each grill. Data from over 30 products was reviewed to ensure a thorough comparison.
How we built this shortlist
Each grill was selected based on key factors like cooking area, fuel type, and user ratings. We focused on grills specifically designed for two people. The top eight products were chosen for their features and popularity.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded grills that did not have at least 400 square inches of cooking space. Models with poor user reviews and those lacking essential features were also ruled out. Our goal was to provide the best options for two people.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing or lab measurements were conducted. We did not invent scores or rankings, relying solely on available data. All assessments are based on user feedback and specifications provided by manufacturers.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated quarterly or as soon as new products are released. We aim to keep the information current with the latest models and user feedback. Insights may change based on market trends.
What to look for
Cooking Area
Cooking area is important for your grilling needs. Look for grills with at least 400 square inches of space if you plan to cook for two people. This size allows you to grill different items without crowding the grill. Compact grills often have enough area for burgers, veggies, or even steak.
Fuel Type
Grills typically use gas or charcoal. Propane grills heat up quickly, allowing for precise cooking. Charcoal grills provide a smoky flavor, which many grill lovers appreciate. Think about how much time you want to spend cooking and cleaning when making your choice.
Portability
Consider how you plan to use the grill. If you want to take it camping or to a park, a lightweight and compact grill is best. Some grills come with wheels, making them easier to move. If you need a permanent grill in your backyard, size might not be an issue.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning your grill is essential for maintenance. Look for features like removable grates and ash catchers. Some models also have built-in cleaning systems. A grill with easy cleanup saves you time and effort after a fun cooking session.
Durability
Durability is key for a long-lasting grill. Choose grills made from sturdy materials like stainless steel or porcelain-coated steel. These materials resist rust and wear. A sturdy grill will withstand the outdoor elements and regular use.
How to Choose Grills
Determine Your Cooking Needs
Think about what you plan to grill. If you want to cook larger items like steaks, a grill with a minimum of 400 square inches is ideal. Smaller grills may be fine for burgers and hot dogs, but a bit more space allows for variety.
Choose Between Propane and Charcoal
The fuel type impacts your cooking style. If you like rich, smoky flavors, go for a charcoal grill. If you want quick and easy cooking, choose propane. Decide what matters most to you when grilling.
Consider Your Space
Measure the area where you plan to set up your grill. Compact grills fit well in small yards or patios. Larger grills may require more space, which is better for big gatherings. Make sure you have enough space for cooking and cleaning.
Look for Versatility
Some grills can also smoke food or function as an oven. If you want to do more than grilling, these features may be worth considering. A versatile grill can expand your cooking options significantly.
Check for Warranty and Support
A good warranty shows the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. Look for grills with at least a one-year warranty. This can protect your purchase and allow for repair or replacement if needed.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best grill for two people?
The best grill for two people is the Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker. It offers plenty of cooking space and the added benefit of smoking.
Can I use a charcoal grill indoors?
No, charcoal grills should not be used indoors. They produce harmful carbon monoxide. Always use them in a well-ventilated outdoor area.
How do I clean my grill?
To clean your grill, remove the grates and clean them with warm soapy water. Use a grill brush to scrub off any residue. Wipe the inside with a damp cloth.
Is it worth buying a gas grill?
Yes, gas grills are convenient and heat up quickly. They are easy to control and clean. A good choice if you want a hassle-free grilling experience.
How long does a charcoal grill take to heat up?
A charcoal grill usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes to heat up. This depends on the amount of charcoal used and weather conditions.
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
Similar guides
- 8 Best Grills under $150 in 2026 Kitchen & Dining
- 8 Best Grills for Seniors in 2026 Kitchen & Dining
- 8 Best Rotisserie Grills in 2026 Kitchen & Dining
- 8 Best Knife Set Comparison in 2026 Kitchen & Dining
- 8 Best Mabe Refrigerator Reviews in 2026 Kitchen & Dining
- 8 Best Instant Pot Duo Plus vs Ultra in 2026 Kitchen & Dining