You will find a charcoal grill in most households as an alternative cooker. It is affordable to operate due to the low cost of charcoal. This utility is also very adaptable. You can use it for roasting, grilling, and smoking, among many more cooking styles.
So, if you are looking for the best charcoal grill, which one should you go for? To help you lay your hands on the finest, we present you with a review of top-rated charcoal grills 2023.
Best Overall Charcoal Grill
Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch
The top pick goes to the Weber 22-inch charcoal grill. It is an excellent kitchen utility with plenty of features, as we can see below.
What is your favorite food to cook on the grill? Is it kabobs, hot dogs, or hamburgers? Maybe you prefer chicken or steak.
Whatever your preference, this product will fit any taste and budget. The installation of the grill isn’t too bad but could be better with more precise instructions.
Once installed, though, getting smoke rolling is quick and easy!
Clean-up also takes very little time – sweep away all the ashes at the bottom and then remove the ashtray for an even faster clean-up process!
Usability
One of the prominent features of this Weber grill is its user-friendliness, whereby you will have an easy time when preparing food. Installation is straightforward, with the user manual coming to your aid.
It has a One-Touch cleaning system, and a high-capacity ash catcher. These two features make cleaning a walk in the park. Other exceptional components include the lid hook, which holds the lid, and the cooking grate, which has a hinge for easy charcoal refills. There’s also a built-in thermometer that shows you the internal heat.
Additionally, it is safe to use. Its handle has insulation to prevent you from burns and the lid has a heat shield that prevents the handle from excess heat.
Awesome Looks
The kettle design is an American classic and a traditional craft from Weber. Having this grill in your cookout will show off your appreciation for classic things. The lid has a shiny coat of porcelain enamel, which also enhances its aesthetic factor.
Space
Weber’s kettle grill is pretty compact; as such, it does not require much space. When not in use, you can disassemble it and put it away. Reassembling it is simple and won’t take a lot of your time.
Despite its small appearance, you can use it to prepare large meal servings. The grill has a cooking area of 363 square inches. It can accommodate up to 13 burgers at once, decent enough for a small get-together.
Quality
The Weber kettle premium is a high-quality construction. Steel and aluminum are their primary materials. These materials are very sturdy and less prone to wear. The porcelain enamel coat adds a layer of protection to the grill and also helps in heat retention.
Portability
For a charcoal grill, this Weber model is light at 37.3 pounds, boosting its portability. This cooker appliance has wheels, making its translocation hassle-free.
Product Details
Product dimensions: 39.5*22.5*27-inches.
Grill weight: 37.3 pounds.
Cooking area: 363 square inches.
Material: stainless steel and aluminum.
Thumbs Up
- Effortless installation, use, and maintenance.
- The grill is portable.
- A durable build.
- Economical on space.
- A large cooking area.
- Safe to use.
- It has fantastic looks.
Thumbs Down
- The lid may have problems closing, especially when not correctly fitted.
Best Digital Charcoal Grill
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 Digital Charcoal Grill + Smoker
This product is one of the most versatile on the market. It has a smoker and a grill all in one! You can have your favorite smoked flavor or enjoy your favorite grilled food.
The grill is large enough for any size family and it warms up to 700 degrees Fahrenheit in no time at all, even with just the charcoal burning!
It also features variable speeds for the fan so you can control how much smoke enters your food as well as not just having an “on” or “off.”
If you are a tech-savvy person, you will love the Masterbuilt Gravity series digital charcoal grill. It is an amazing appliance that will wow you once you realize what it is capable of. Let us take you through its features and attributes.
Wi-Fi Control
Imagine being able to control your grill from your phone. That is what you achieve with the Masterbuilt Gravity series grill. This implement is compatible with Wi-Fi, letting you monitor it remotely.
Convenient to Use
You cannot overlook the convenience of this Masterbuilt grill. A major contributing factor is its GravityFed hopper. It can hold up to 10 pounds of charcoal lumps or 16 pounds of briquettes. When full, it can serve you for almost 16 hours. The DigitalFan comes to your aid in temperature regulation.
Its porcelain coat will give you an easy time when it comes to cleaning and its racks are dishwasher-friendly.
Flexibility
Grilling, roasting, smoking, and barbecuing are some of the things you can do with this grill. Furthermore, it has smoke + sear cast-iron grates. With these grates, you can go for low or slow smoking or high heat searing.
Temperature Control
This cooking appliance gives you ample heat control. It can reach 225 degrees Fahrenheit in 7 minutes. This is an ideal range when preparing steak or other meat dishes. When you connect the grill to your Wi-Fi network, you can view the temperature and adjust it to the right level.
Besides the inbuilt thermometer, there is the meat probe thermometer. With it, you are sure of an excellent outcome, as you have proper temperature readings.
Mobility
At 147 pounds, this cooking utility is bulky. However, it is not something that should worry you as it has wheels to enhance its mobility. The heavy-duty wheels can tackle any terrain; hence, moving it is stress-free.
Cooking Space
The grill has two cooking racks, which provide you with a 560-square-inch cooking area. The cooking space is ideal for a small to medium gathering in your backyard cookout.
Product Details
Dimensions: 24.7*54.1*52-inches.
Product weight: 147 pounds.
Material: stainless steel.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi compatibility.
Cooking area: 560 square inches.
Thumbs Up
- Wi-Fi connectivity allows for remote operation.
- Ample cooking space.
- Wheels for mobility.
- Convenient to use.
- It can handle various cooking functions like smoking and roasting.
- Easy to use and maintain.
- A robust construction.
Thumbs Down
- The grill is bulky.
Best Tabletop Portable Grill
Oklahoma Joe’s Rambler Portable Charcoal Grill
Portability is a critical attribute to look at when getting a charcoal grill. This portable charcoal grill is the prime pick when focusing on portability. Highlighted below are its features.
Portability
This cooker’s selling point is its portability. It weighs 48.5 pounds, a manageable mass if you want to carry it. You can have it on your tabletop when preparing your meals.
If you love camping and other outdoor activities, this is the best charcoal grill to have.
Durable
Oklahoma Joe’s charcoal grill is heavy-duty steel construction. Here, you have the assurance of longevity as it won’t break down easily.
User-Friendliness
Another thing to love about this cooker is its user-friendliness. You notice this attribute from its assembly, use, and maintenance. As a beginner, this grill is an excellent introduction to the art of grilling and roasting.
When it comes to cleaning, a removable ash pan helps you to deal with the charcoal residue. Additionally, it has thick cast-iron racks for an excellent cook. For the best results, you have to season the cast iron grates.
Temperature Control
When grilling, the temperature is among the variables that you have to be keen with. This cooking implement gives you an upper edge when it comes to temperature control. It has a professional temperature gauge on its lid for internal heat readings.
It also sports large air dampers on the side to control airflow, which helps maintain a steady internal temperature.
Product Details
Weight: 48.5 pounds.
Product dimensions: 19.5*26.8*21.8-inches.
Power source: charcoal.
Primary material: steel.
Thumbs Up
- It is light in weight, contributing to portability.
- A compact build that makes it economical in space.
- A sturdy construction.
- Offers adequate temperature control.
- Effortless use and maintenance.
- Safe to use, courtesy of features like rubber-gripped side handles.
Thumbs Down
- The cooking space is relatively small, and not ideal for large food servings.
Best for Outdoors and Camping
BioLite FirePit+ Wood and Charcoal Burning FirePit and Grill
If you are into camping and outdoor activities, you need a versatile and friendly grill. BioLite FirePit+ wood and charcoal grill meets this definition. Let us have a closer look at this grill to see why it is the ultimate outdoor companion.
Versatility
A clear attribute to notice about this BioLite kitchen equipment is its versatility. First of all, it can use either wood or charcoal as its primary fuel source. This comes in handy in the outdoor environment, where you may run out of charcoal. Here, you pick wood from your surroundings to keep the fire burning.
Another hint of its flexibility is the multiple functions it can support. Mainly, you use it for grilling, but you may also use it for smoking, roasting, and for providing heat and light.
Lightness
At 19.8 pounds, the BioLite FirePit grill is very light. Its weight boosts its portability, coupled with its small build. When not in use, you can fold its legs and put it in its provided bag for easy movement.
Functionality
This grill assures you of an excellent time when looking at its functionality. Setting it up is a walk in the park, the same as disassembling and cleaning it.
The grill is compatible with Bluetooth. When connected to your phone’s Bluetooth via a mobile application, you can control its airflow remotely. The cooker’s body design lets heat radiate outside, suitable for warming functions.
The grill has a fan that runs on a 12800-mAh battery for a longer runtime. You may use this battery to charge your phone.
Aesthetic Factor
The BioLite FirePit model is a beauty. It has mesh covering the upper part, which provides for an amazing look when lit.
Product Details
Item weight: 19.8 pounds.
Grill dimensions: 27*13*15.8 inches.
Bluetooth compatibility.
Fuel source: charcoal or wood.
A 12800-mAh battery.
Thumbs Up
- Handles multiple cooking functions.
- Bluetooth connectivity that allows for remote control.
- When lit, the cooker has an impressive look.
- Light in weight; hence, portable.
- A powerful battery that powers the fan and can also charge your phone.
- Effortless assembly, use, and maintenance.
Thumbs Down
- When in high settings, the fan may be noisy.
Budget Pick
Weber Original Kettle 18-Inch Charcoal Grill
When on a budget, you may consider the Weber Original kettle 18-inch charcoal grill. Below are more appealing attributes of this cooking device.
Assembling
A hurdle that many people fear is that of assembling a grill. In case you mess up a step, the results may be discouraging. The good thing about the Weber kettle grill is that the assembly is stress-free.
The BILT app will provide you with 3D interactive instructions on how to fix it.
Space Economy
At 240 square inches of cooking area, this grill is suited for preparing small meal servings. You can rely on it if you have a gathering of around six people. The cooker can hold up to nine burgers at once.
It makes up for the small cooking area with space economy. This Weber grill is economical on space, and you can disassemble it for less storage space.
Convenience
It is beginner-friendly, a great starting point if you are a novice in grilling. Cleaning won’t stress you, as the One-Touch cleaning system and ash catcher have your back.
Top-Quality
This Weber model has steel as its primary material. Steel is very robust and can withstand a harsh environment. Some parts, like the lid and grate sport a porcelain coat, adding an extra level of hardiness. The porcelain coat makes cleaning a hassle-free engagement.
This appliance will serve you for a long time without any signs of wear.
Mobility
Lightness and wheels make this Weber Original utility mobile. It weighs 24.3 pounds, a manageable weight. Heavy-duty wheels let you move the cooker around your yard, regardless of the terrain.
Product Details
Dimensions: 18*23*35-inches.
Product weight: 24.3 pounds.
Main material: steel.
One-Touch cleaning system.
Thumbs Up
- Trouble-free assembly, use, and maintenance.
- Light in weight.
- Economical on space.
- Its wheels make it mobile.
- A durable construction.
- Precise heat control.
Thumbs Down
- It lacks a temperature gauge; thus, it is hard to know the internal heat levels.
Best Kamado Grill
Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker Charcoal Barbecue Grill and Smoker
The Kamado grill is one of the most sought cookers due to its unique features. Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker is a good example. The following are some of its features and attributes.
Heat Retention
Kamado grills never disappoint when it comes to heat retention. Their ovular design comes in handy to retain heat. It ensures that you have well-prepared food. The Char-Griller Akorn brings its best in heat retention.
Its insulated design and less airflow allow for optimum temperatures in the cooking chamber. This design boosts fuel economy. The easy-to-read temperature gauge is for checking the internal heat levels.
The temperature range of this utility is 200-700 degrees Fahrenheit.
Portability
At 97 pounds, this Char-Griller product is pretty bulky. To deal with the weight, it has sturdy wheels for effortless movement. There are two 8-inch frontal wheels and a rear locking caster wheel, which enhances its safety.
Grilling Space
The Char-Griller Akorn is a practical appliance for small to medium gatherings. It has a 314-square-inch grilling space and 133-square-inch warming space. In total, you have 447 square inches of cooking area. Here, you can prepare several burgers or meat slices.
Longevity
The Akorn Kamado charcoal grill will last you for a long time. It is a stainless steel build, which is sturdy and not prone to degradation.
Flexibility
This grill can handle various food preparation styles. You may use it for grilling, barbecuing, roasting, and smoking.
Products Details
Weight: 97 pounds.
Dimensions: 26.6*24.8*21.7-inches.
Cooking space: 314 square inches of primary cooking area and 133 square inches of warming space.
Main grill material: steel.
Power source: charcoal.
Thumbs Up
- Impressive heat retention.
- High-quality construction.
- Sufficient cooking space.
- It has wheels for mobility.
- The grill will support smoking, barbecuing, and roasting.
- It has a dump ash pan for disposing of ash.
- Economical on charcoal use.
Thumbs Down
- Its paint may come off after prolonged use.
Best Splurge
Weber Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch Touch-N-Go
If you love a hint of class in your cooking space, this is the to-go cooker. We will look at more of its appealing characteristics.
Usability
A look at this grill’s usability, you realize that it is very convenient. Lighting is straightforward, thanks to the Touch-N-Go ignition system. A button press is all you need to light up the grill.
For assembly, you can download the BILT app to show you how to go about it. Its One-Touch cleaning system guarantees you a hassle-free cleaning time.
A component that upholds this utility’s functionality is its removable LCD cook timer. The display is clear and allows you to set the preparation time comfortably. A built-in lid thermometer will give you accurate internal heat readings.
Portability
This Weber utility is quite bulky at 90 pounds. To beat the bulkiness, it sports four wheels for easy movement. The large frontal wheels can move through various surfaces, ideal for your backyard.
Quality Construction
The Weber Performer Deluxe charcoal grill has a top-quality frame. Aluminum and steel are the primary materials, renowned for their resiliency. Quality construction is an assurance of lengthy service.
Product Details
Product weight: 90 pounds.
Product dimensions: 30*48*43.5-inches.
Cooking area: diameter of 22 inches and area of 363 square inches.
Removable LCD cook timer.
Material: steel.
Power source: charcoal.
Thumbs Up
- Ease of assembly.
- Cleaning is trouble-free.
- A robust build.
- A large cooking area.
- It is movable, and supported by four wheels.
- An amazing look.
Thumbs Down
- The Weber Performer Deluxe is bulky and takes up a lot of storage space.
Best Cart-Style Charcoal Grill
Char-Griller Patio Pro Charcoal Grill
A cart-style charcoal grill is an excellent option if you want to move around a lot. Char-Griller Patio pro charcoal grill is the finest selection. The following are some of this appliance’s standout facets.
Easy to Assemble
When you get this Char-Griller’s package, the first step is its assembly. This is a simple engagement, with its user manual having your back. When not in use, you may effortlessly disassemble it to minimize space used in storage.
The Space Factor
This grill has a pretty small build, with dimensions of 31*21*44 inches. It is suitable for small spaces when looking at storage. Additionally, it has a cooking area of 250 square inches, perfect for a small gathering.
Durability
The Char-Griller Patio pro’s main material is stainless steel. This material is very stable, translating to long service. A powder coat improves its resiliency against destructive agents like rust.
Wheels
This cart-style cooking appliance has a pair of frontal wheels. They make movement simple, further boosted by its 40-pound weight.
Product Details
Weight: 40 pounds.
Dimensions: 31*21*44- inches.
Main material: steel.
Fuel: charcoal.
Thumbs Up
- Effortless assembly.
- Economical on space.
- Wheels for mobility.
- High-quality construction material.
- Relatively lightweight.
- Great heat distribution.
Thumbs Down
- You may notice grease leakages.
Best Charcoal Grill and Smoker
PK Grills PKO-SCAX-X Grill and Smoker
A charcoal grill and smoker combo is a great option as it is flexible. You may use it for grilling or smoking. Let us have an in-depth look at its attributes.
Multiple Cooking Functions
The PK Grills utility can grill, smoke, roast, and bake. It is very adaptable, allowing you to try out various food preparation styles.
Aluminum Construction
The cooker is aluminum construction, a guarantee of top quality. Aluminum is less prone to wear agents like rust. This material also contributes to its lightness, making it portable.
Aluminum is exemplary in heat conduction and is four times better than steel.
Cooking Space
A 300-square-inch cooking space is large enough to accommodate a full-sized turkey. The large area makes cleaning a walk in the park.
Product Details
Weight: 45 pounds.
Dimensions: 16*35*35.5-inches.
Material: aluminum.
Cooking area: 300 square inches.
Fuel: charcoal.
Thumbs Up
- The grill is portable.
- Supports multiple cooking methods.
- Easy to clean.
- High-quality build.
- Adequate cooking area.
- High heat conduction level.
Thumbs Down
- The exterior can get too hot when you are using it.
Best Heavy-Duty Charcoal Grill
Dyna-Glo Dual-Zone Premium Charcoal Grill, X-Large
Dyna-Glo Dual-zone premium charcoal grill is a heavy-duty appliance. It is very strong and a great pick if you desire an appliance that will give you a lengthy service. The following are this appliance’s characteristics.
Durability
This cooker’s selling aspect is its heavy-duty construction. Steel is its primary material. Steel is very resilient, with its shininess boosting the utility’s aesthetic value.
Cooking Area
This Dyna-Glo model has a considerable cooking spot, divided into two. The primary site has an area of 576 square inches while the second spot has 240 square inches. In total, this grill has a cooking area of 816 square inches.
Convenience
Fixing this Dyna-Glo model when new is straightforward, whereby, a user manual will come to your aid. The same applies to its use and overall maintenance.
Temperature Control
A lid-mounted temperature gauge shows you the heat readings of the cooking chamber. You can adjust the heat by adding more fuel or opening the damper.
Wheels for Movement
The grill is heavy, weighing 112 pounds. To deal with the massive weight, it has wheels, front, and rear for movement.
Product Details
Item dimensions: 60.2*50.5*28.6-inches.
Product weight: 112 pounds.
Cooking area: the primary cooking area is 576 square inches, and the secondary cooking space is 240 square inches. The total area is 816 square inches.
Primary material: steel.
Fuel: charcoal.
Thumbs Up
- Convenient to use.
- A stable build.
- A large cooking area.
- Wheels for mobility.
- Adequate temperature control.
- Awesome looks.
Thumbs Down
- The Dyna-Glo grill is enormous and requires a large storage space.
What to Consider When Buying a Charcoal Grill?
Build Quality
A top factor to consider when buying a charcoal grill is quality. Here, you focus on the material. The common materials are stainless steel and aluminum. Both are very resilient.
There are ceramic grills, also known as Kamado grills. They are sturdy and ideal if you want ample heat circulation and retention. A high-quality build will last you for a decent time without signs of degradation.
Size and Cooking Area
Size and cooking area are other vital attributes to look at. If you have a large family or prepare large-sized dishes, a large grill will do you justice. The cooking area should be at least 500 square inches.
A small grill like Yakitori is a good choice if you have a small family. Furthermore, it won’t take up much storage space.
Temperature Control and Stability
Temperature is essential when preparing your food. Depending on your preferred doneness, you have to adjust the heat settings correctly. Be keen on temperature control, looking at features like the heat gauge which shows you accurate readings of the internal temperatures.
For a consistent temperature, ensure the grill has air vents. These regulate airflow, helping you achieve the desired heat amount.
Ease of Use
Ease of use matters, more so if you are a beginner. A user-friendly grill is easy to assemble and disassemble, use, and clean. Advanced types have digital dials that show you temperature and time.
Cleaning and Maintenance
For lengthy service, you have to maintain the grill. Some of the practices to perform include cleaning and servicing worn-out parts. You can replace damaged parts or, if possible, repair them.
This engagement should be trouble-free. Some grills have an efficient cleaning system that helps get rid of ash, grease, and grime. When buying a cooker, go for one that is simple to maintain.
Accessories and Additional Features
Some cooking appliances will come with accessories and additional features for your convenience. Essential grilling accessories include grill brushes, tongs, and a meat thermometer.
In additional features, there is Wi-Fi and Bluetooth compatibility for the remote control on your phone. Other grills have a fan for adequate temperature control. The more features the grill has, the better it is.
Cost
Finally, you have to factor in the cost of the cooker. Ensure that you go for a grill within your financial might. Instead of going for a cheaper implementation, opt for one that gives you the best value on your budget.
FAQs
How to start a charcoal grill?
The first step in using a charcoal grill is lighting it. Most of the time, you may use lighter fluid to start it. However, not everyone is a fan of using this method due to issues like odor. The good thing is that there are ways of starting a charcoal grill without lighter fluid.
You can use a chimney starter, where you use a grate-like tool to light your charcoal. You then introduce the charcoal to your grill. You may also rely on an electric starter.
The electric starter has a heating element that will heat the charcoal. It is a plug-and-use device and one of the fastest ways of starting a charcoal grill.
How to use a charcoal grill?
Using a charcoal grill is very straightforward. Once assembled correctly, you light up the charcoal. With the charcoal burning, fix the racks. Allow it to preheat before introducing your food. Check the temperature on the heat gauge to be certain that it is at the ideal levels.
Introduce your food and shut the lid. Consistently check on your dishes, and if well done, you can serve them.
How to put out a charcoal grill?
When done with grilling, you have to put out the cooker. This helps conserve your charcoal for future use. After removing your food, remove the charcoal or briquettes using tongs and other protective gear.
On safely putting out a charcoal grill, start by placing the charcoal in aluminum foil and seal it. This action prevents any fire hazards. The fuel will cool down, and you may later reuse it.
How to clean a charcoal grill?
Cleaning your cooking implement is an essential part of its maintenance. How to clean a grill, depends on its state. Cleaning a well-maintained grill is hassle-free. Start by removing ash and dispose of it properly. Then shift your focus to the racks. If they are dishwasher-friendly, you have an easy time.
If not, you can use a grill brush with soapy water to deal with the grime. You then focus on the main cooker. Use the brush, targeting areas with dirt like hinges, the lid, and the handles. When done, dry it and its parts to prevent rust.
Final Words
The charcoal grill is an excellent utility to have in your kitchen or backyard. Apart from grilling, most of them can handle roasting, baking, and smoking. This piece brings you the top charcoal grills of 2023. Use the selection to pick the most preferable and enjoy a fulfilling moment preparing your food.
Last update on 2023-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API