Best Charcoal Briquettes Brand for Grilling
When friends and family gather, great food aids bring everybody with each other. southernsmokebbq. will recommend the best charcoal briquettes brand for you to use for your grill. When you choose the best charcoal briquettes brand, your food obtains the precise flavor that you are looking for.
The utility of charcoal is underappreciated. Charcoal, a product of burning wood in the absence of oxygen, is a remarkable technical advancement since it outperforms the wood itself in terms of burn time and temperature. This allowed people to reach the temperatures required for metal smelting, which ushered in the Iron and Bronze Ages. It’s not a stretch to claim that contemporary society couldn’t have emerged without charcoal. Check out a variety of flavorful briquettes, including the best charcoal briquettes brand, different forms, and various sizes that will fit your grill completely.
When searching for the best charcoal briquettes brand, you can find options that suit your barbecuing style and will certainly meet your needs. What is essential is that you discover the best charcoal briquettes brand for smoking or any other kind of grilling that you intend to do. However, in modern times, charcoal is most often seen in charcoal grills as a cooking medium.
Grilling with it is easier than with wood and produces a more robust charred and smoky taste than with propane. A wide variety of charcoals are available, with dozens of manufacturers producing lump, briquette, and other specialized varieties. As a team at Food & Wine, we’ve been passionate grillers for over 50 years, so we decided to test twelve different kinds of charcoal to see which one was the best charcoal briquettes brand. Now that you have the finest charcoal, all you need are your grilling implements, and begin grilling.
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Our Favorite: Best Charcoal Briquettes Brand To Bake
When it comes to grilling, the right charcoal briquettes can make a significant difference in flavor and cooking performance. Here are some of the best brands you might consider. We recommend The Good Charcoal Company Lump Charcoal because of its high quality and the company’s dedication to environmental and financial sustainability. It burnt cleanly and uniformly, and we were able to keep the temperature where we wanted it.
- Kingsford Original Charcoal Briquettes: Known for their consistent quality and even burning, Kingsford briquettes are a popular choice among grillers.
- Weber Briquettes: Made from natural ingredients, Weber briquettes offer a long burn time and are designed for high-heat grilling.
- Royal Oak Charcoal Briquettes: This brand provides a strong heat output and is made from 100% natural hardwood, enhancing the flavor of your food.
- Lazzari Hardwood Charcoal: Made from pure hardwood, Lazzari briquettes are free from additives and provide a great smoky flavor.
- Char-Griller Charcoal Briquettes: These briquettes are designed for easy lighting and provide a steady burn, making them ideal for long cookouts.
- B&B Charcoal Briquettes: Known for their quality, B&B briquettes burn longer and hotter, perfect for searing meats and achieving that perfect crust.
Choosing the right brand can enhance your grilling experience and ensure your food tastes fantastic. Happy grilling!
Our Top Picks:
- Top Pick – Royal Oak. NAT Lump Charcoal
- Runner Up – Big Green Egg Premium 100% Natural Lump Charcoal
- Best Budget – Jealous Devil All-Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal
- Top Choice – B&B Charcoal Oak Lump Charcoal, Flavor Oak
- Best Charcoal – FOGO Super Premium Lump Charcoal
Best Charcoal Briquettes Brand for Grilling
1. Royal Oak. NAT Lump Charcoal
Royal Oak Natural Lump Charcoal is a reliable choice for grillers who want clean-burning fuel with no additives. Made from 100% natural hardwood, it lights quickly and reaches high temperatures, making it ideal for both grilling and searing. The lump size is fairly consistent, allowing for good airflow and steady heat control. It produces minimal ash, which helps keep grills cleaner and improves efficiency during long cooks. Flavor-wise, Royal Oak delivers a mild, natural smoky taste that complements meats without overpowering them. For everyday grilling and weekend BBQ sessions, this charcoal offers solid performance at a competitive price point.
Advantages:
- 100% All Natural: Made from renewable sources like oak, hickory, maple, and walnut.
- No Chemicals/Additives: Safe for health-conscious grilling.
- Quick Heating: Ready to use in about 15 minutes.
- Even Burning: Provides consistent heat for perfect grilling.
Disadvantages:
- Price: May be more expensive than briquettes.
- Availability: Can be harder to find in some locations.
Considering its high quality, this charcoal is an excellent buy for a variety of uses, making it one of the best charcoal briquettes brands. Be careful not to raise the bag while it’s wet; the paper isn’t particularly waterproof and will release charcoal all over. Royal Oak Lump Charcoal offers a premium grilling experience with its natural ingredients and consistent performance. Upgrade your grilling game today—try Royal Oak for your next barbecue!
2. Big Green Egg Premium 100% Natural Lump Charcoal
Big Green Egg Hickory and Oak Lump Charcoal is specifically crafted for premium ceramic grills but performs well in any charcoal setup. The blend of hickory and oak provides a rich, balanced smoke flavor that enhances beef, pork, and poultry. Large lump pieces burn longer and hotter, making this charcoal excellent for low-and-slow smoking as well as high-heat grilling. It produces very little ash, supporting consistent airflow and temperature control. With no fillers or chemicals, this all-natural charcoal is perfect for pitmasters seeking clean burn, long duration, and authentic wood-fired flavor.
Advantages:
- Natural Ingredients: Free from chemicals and additives.
- Quick Lighting: Ready in just 10 minutes.
- Sustainable Sourcing: Environmentally friendly from certified forests.
Disadvantages:
- Higher Cost: Premium quality comes with a price.
- Less Consistent Size: Lump charcoal can vary in size, affecting burn time.
Experience the superior grilling performance of Big Green Egg Premium 100% Natural Lump Charcoal. Made from organic oak and hickory wood sourced from FSC-certified forests, this charcoal offers an eco-friendly choice for your BBQ needs. Elevate your grilling experience with Big Green Egg charcoal. Try it today and enjoy the rich flavors of natural wood!
3. Jealous Devil All-Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal
Jealous Devil Pro Hardwood Lump Charcoal is a top-tier option for serious BBQ enthusiasts and professionals. Made from ultra-dense South American hardwood, it delivers exceptionally long burn times and extremely high heat output. The oversized lump pieces allow for superior airflow, making temperature control easier during extended smoking sessions. This charcoal produces minimal sparks and ash, keeping grills clean and efficient. Its neutral smoke profile lets the natural flavors of meat shine while still providing subtle wood-fired character. Ideal for competition BBQ, restaurants, and long cooks, Jealous Devil stands out for consistency, durability, and premium quality.
Advantages:
- 100% Natural: Made from pure South American hardwoods with no chemicals or fillers.
- Professional Quality: No sparking or popping; low ash production makes it ideal for any grilling setup.
- Superior Burn: Delivers over 7000 kcal/g, reaches temperatures above 1170°F, and lasts over 4 hours on open grills.
- Pure Flavor: Adds a mild, enhancing aroma that complements various meats without overwhelming their natural taste.
Disadvantages:
- Price: Higher cost compared to standard charcoal brands.
- Availability: May be harder to find in local stores.
For serious grillers and chefs, Jealous Devil Lump Charcoal offers unmatched performance and flavor. Don’t settle for less—elevate your grilling experience today! Get yours now!
Best Charcoal for Flavor
4. B&B Charcoal Oak Lump Charcoal, Flavor Oak
B&B Oak Lump Charcoal is known for its strong, authentic oak flavor and dependable performance. The lump sizes are well-balanced, offering a mix that supports both quick grilling and longer smoking sessions. Oak hardwood burns steadily and produces a bold yet clean smoke that pairs especially well with brisket, ribs, and steaks. This charcoal lights easily, burns hot, and leaves behind minimal ash for better airflow control. With no added chemicals or fillers, B&B Oak Lump Charcoal is a great choice for backyard pitmasters who value traditional Texas-style BBQ flavor and consistent heat.
Advantages:
- 100% natural with no additives or fillers
- Environmentally friendly choice
- Provides authentic Texas-style flavor
- Burns hotter and longer than briquettes
Disadvantages:
- Higher price point compared to some brands
- May require more effort to ignite
B&B Charcoal delivers a superior grilling experience with its natural composition and robust flavor. For BBQ enthusiasts seeking quality, this is an excellent choice. Elevate your grilling game—try B&B Charcoal Oak Lump Charcoal today!
5. FOGO Super Premium Lump Charcoal
FOGO Super Premium Oak Lump Charcoal is designed for grillers who demand restaurant-quality results at home. Featuring extra-large lump pieces, it provides excellent airflow and long-lasting burn times. The all-natural oak hardwood delivers a clean, mild smoke that enhances food without bitterness. FOGO charcoal is easy to light, burns extremely hot, and maintains stable temperatures for both grilling and smoking. It also produces very little ash, helping maintain efficient airflow in kamado and kettle grills. Ideal for steaks, seafood, and low-and-slow BBQ, FOGO offers premium consistency and outstanding heat performance.
Advantages:
- Delicious Smoked Flavor: Enhances the taste of grilled foods.
- Quick Lighting: Saves time during prep.
- Longer Burn Time: Ideal for extended grilling sessions.
- Large Chunks: Hand-selected for consistent performance.
Disadvantages:
- Price: More expensive than some alternatives.
- Availability: May be harder to find in local stores.
Conclusion
For serious grillers seeking restaurant-quality results, FOGO Super Premium Lump Charcoal is an excellent choice. Upgrade your grilling game today!
Best Charcoal for Smoking
6. Duraflame Cowboy Natural Wood Briquettes
DURAFLAME Cowboy Natural Hardwood Briquettes are a solid choice for grillers who value clean ingredients and consistent heat. Made from 100% natural hardwood with no chemical additives, these briquettes light easily and produce a neutral smoke flavor that won’t overpower food. Heat distribution is even, making them ideal for backyard grilling, burgers, steaks, and vegetables. The briquettes burn longer than many budget options, reducing the need for frequent refueling. Ash production is moderate and easy to manage, helping maintain airflow in the grill. Overall, this charcoal is a reliable option for everyday grilling with a focus on natural performance and dependable results.
Features :
- Excellent timber taste
- Natural
- 14-pound bag
- One bag
Pros
- These briquettes have a regular melt temperature
- You can utilize them for grilling or smoking cigarettes
- There is no demand for starter liquid
Cons
- These may take somewhat longer to fire up compared to comparable briquettes
7. Cowboy Easy Light Natural Hardwood Lump BBQ Charcoal Briquettes
Cowboy Southern Style Hardwood Lump Charcoal is designed for grillers who prefer authentic wood-fired flavor. This lump charcoal lights quickly and reaches high temperatures fast, making it excellent for searing steaks and cooking over direct heat. The irregular lump sizes allow for good airflow and temperature control, especially in kamado and charcoal grills. Made from natural hardwood, it delivers a robust smoky aroma without a chemical aftertaste. Burn time is respectable, and ash output is lower than traditional briquettes. For those seeking a more traditional grilling experience with bold flavor and responsive heat control, this 20-pound bag offers great value.
Advantages:
- Natural Ingredients: 100% hardwood lump charcoal ensures no additives, preserving flavor.
- Superior Performance: Lights faster and burns hotter, reducing cooking time.
- Minimal Ash Production: Easy cleanup after grilling.
- Eco-Friendly: Made from renewable resources, promoting sustainability.
Disadvantages:
- Price: Often more expensive than traditional briquettes.
Conclusion: For a cleaner, more flavorful grilling experience, choose Cowboy Easy Light Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal. Elevate your BBQ game today!
Best Charcoal for Ceramic Grills
8. Bayou Classic Natural Charcoal Briquets
Bayou Classic Natural Charcoal Briquets are built for steady, predictable cooking. These briquettes are well-suited for long grilling sessions, thanks to their consistent shape and controlled burn rate. They provide even heat across the grill surface, which is ideal for ribs, chicken, and slow-cooked barbecue recipes. Made with natural materials, they deliver a clean burn with minimal chemical smell during startup. The briquettes hold temperature well, helping beginners and experienced grillers maintain control. With a generous 16-pound bag, Bayou Classic offers dependable performance for both casual weekend grilling and extended cookouts.
Features :
- One hundred percent natural
- Superior food taste
- 16-pound bag
- One bag
Pros
- The food has a good flavor
- These briquettes are simple to work with
- You can control the temperature quickly
Cons
- These briquettes have more dust in the bag than similar briquettes.
9. Kingsford Original Charcoal Briquettes
Kingsford Original Charcoal Briquettes remain a classic choice for reliable grilling performance. Known for consistent size and predictable burn, these briquettes make temperature control simple for beginners and seasoned grillers alike. They light quickly and provide steady heat, making them suitable for everything from burgers to slow-cooked barbecue. The familiar smoky flavor enhances food without overpowering it. Ash production is manageable, and the dual-pack format offers convenience and storage flexibility. While not a premium natural option, Kingsford continues to be trusted for its reliability, ease of use, and wide availability for everyday grilling needs.
Features :
- Natural components
- Smoky taste
- 7.7-pound bag
- Two bags
Pros
- They do not create a solid odor
- These briquettes maintain a consistent temperature
- The briquettes shed for a long time
Cons
- The bags are smaller than the brands at equivalent rates
10. FOGO Super Premium Hardwood Lump Charcoal
FOGO Super Premium Hardwood Lump Charcoal is a top-tier option for serious grillers and pitmasters. Featuring large, dense lump pieces, this charcoal burns extremely hot and long, making it ideal for both high-heat searing and low-and-slow smoking. Made from 100% natural hardwood, it delivers a clean, pure smoke flavor with very low ash production. The large lump size improves airflow and temperature control, especially in ceramic and kamado grills. With restaurant-quality performance and a generous 35-pound bag, FOGO is perfect for enthusiasts who demand premium results from every cook.
Key Features:
- Quick to Heat: Lights in just 15 minutes, allowing you to start grilling without delay.
- Large-Sized Pieces: Approximately 80% are 4 inches or longer, perfect for low and slow cooking.
- Mouthwatering Flavor: Infuses authentic smoky taste into meats, vegetables, and more.
- Versatile Use: Compatible with all major grills and smokers, providing even burning and long-lasting heat.
- Sustainable Production: Made from responsibly sourced tree trimmings and timber marked for removal.
Pros:
- Exceptional flavor enhancement
- Fast lighting and high heat
- Long-lasting performance
Cons:
- Larger pieces may require more time to break down for certain cooking styles.
Elevate your grilling game—try FOGO Super Premium Hardwood Lump Charcoal today!
How We Tested Charcoal
For this compilation, we tested 13 lump and briquette charcoals. The charcoal was assessed and tested in real-world cooking scenarios.
Packaging: Before lighting anything, we checked the charcoal bags. To evaluate whether someone with strength or mobility limitations would have trouble, we lifted and carried them and checked if we could unzip the bags without ripping them to store the unused charcoal. We examined for broken pieces or dust in the bags and soaked them to determine whether they were mushy and easy to rip.
Starting: We fired a batch of charcoal using a chimney starter or natural fire starter and timed how long it took to catch fire and reach a constant temperature.
High-temperature cooking: We loaded a grill with charcoal, opened the vents, and timed it to 475°F. We then seared steak or pork chops, observing how nicely and evenly. After cooking, we sampled the products and observed the charcoal’s smoky flavor. Charcoal burnout time was also measured.
Low-temperature cooking: We placed a batch of charcoal on one side of a grill and cooked half a chicken over the other. We monitored how long it took the chicken to reach 165°F, whether it was dry and burnt or moist and smoky, and how long the charcoal burned after cooking.
After finishing our other tests, we disclosed retail pricing and examined value for money. We compared total and per-pound charcoal pricing since it comes in several bag sizes.
Things to Think About
Lump vs. Briquettes
The two primary varieties of charcoal are lump, uneven chunks created from entire wood, and briquettes, similarly shaped pieces manufactured from crushed charcoal in a mold. Briquettes smoke more and taste food better than lump charcoal, but they are simpler to ignite and burn longer. (Some briquettes include binders, lighter fluid, and other harmful compounds.) Lump charcoal burns hotter than briquettes and generates clear, moderate-flavored smoke, but it’s harder to ignite.
Burn Time
Many charcoals reviewed here have extended burn durations and may be extinguished and reused. The bag of charcoal lasts longer, increasing its value. Others burn hot and fast, so you can cook burgers and hot dogs in the park without waiting hours for the embers to die out. Each kind suits different scenarios.
Wood Type
Charcoal may be created from several woods, each with a distinct taste. Apple, maple, and cherry woods are sweet and delicious, while mesquite is burned. Oak, a popular option, falls in between. The tree it’s manufactured from matters more than the charcoal’s kind or size.
Grill Size
Consider grill size before purchasing charcoal. A low-clearance portable charcoal barbecue may not fit a huge lump of charcoal. Small chunks of hardwood charcoal burn fast on a bigger barbecue, leaving you hunting for hot places.
Final Thought
It is really fun reviewing some of these awesome best charcoal briquettes brands. Now, it’s up to you to decide which product is right for you. If, after looking at these products, certain ones catch your eye, we encourage you to do more research. The idea is to learn as much as you can about the smoker before you purchase it.
The best charcoal briquettes brand of 2025 are those that will provide you with the most value. All of the products on our list are great options, but we believe that the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker 22-Inch is the clear winner. It’s durable, efficient, and produces amazing results each time you use it. If you’re looking for a smoker that will last for years to come, then we highly recommend investing in the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker. Thanks for reading!
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