Best Charcoal Grills in 2023
Julia Mar 21, 2023 7:21 AM
Getting food cooked over charcoal to taste well is a challenge, and if you mess up, you'll end up with something that tastes more like the fuel you used than food. That's why this post compares and ranks the top charcoal grills on the market.
Overview
You just ate. You’re not hungry. And then you catch a whiff of charcoal grilling, all fired up with smoky goodness, and suddenly you’re starving! That is why we have a long-time love affair with the best charcoal grilling despite the fact there are easier and quicker ways to cook
When purchasing a device like a charcoal grill, you may be tempted to just pick any model. Charcoal grilling is more of an art than a science. There are no conveniently hot spots or even consistent set temperatures to go by, you need to wing it all the way and go by feel through most of the cooking process.
Out Top Picks:
- Best Overall: Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill
- Runner-up: Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Charcoal Grill
- Best High-end: Broil King 911470 Keg 5000 Kamado Grill
- High Quality: Weber Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill
- Best Feature: IG Charcoal BBQ IG693247 Stainless Steel Barbeque Grill
- Top Choice: CasusGrill Single Use Biodegradable Grill
1. Best charcoal Grill - Weber 741001 Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill
Weber Original Kettle 22-inch charcoal grill has a round design. Because this design has been around for decades with no significant changes. The circular shape works so well because it creates a convection heating system. The grill is available in three sizes — 18, 22, and 26 inches in diameter — so you can pick the perfect size for your needs. The 22-inch model offers 363 square inches of grilling space, which is ideal. Its ultra-durable, porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat.
The Weber Original Kettle is easy to move from location to location, as it has two wheels and one peg leg in its tripod design.
The Weber 741001 Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill is the perfect grill for any grilling enthusiast. The porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat, while the damper allows for precise temperature control. With a One-Touch cleaning system, this grill is easy to clean up after a long day of grilling. Whether you're cooking burgers or steak on this grill, it will always be the perfect meal.
The Weber 741001 Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill is perfect for the griller who wants ease of use and simple cleanup. The One-Touch cleaning system provides hassle-free ash cleanup, and the removable, aluminum ash catcher means there’s no need to scrub messy grill grates. The porcelain-enameled lid and bowl not only look great but also retain heat, so your food stays warm while you grill. Plus, the dampers allow you to easily control the temperature inside your grill - meaning you can cook whatever you like, exactly the way you like it. And if that wasn't enough, this product also comes with 3D interactive assembly instructions - making it easier than ever to put together.
Feature
- 13 burgers may be cooked at once using a Weber burger press.
- The simple ash removal provided by the One-Touch cleaning mechanism is much appreciated.
- Disposable ashtray made of aluminum
- Cover and vessel are made of porcelain with an enameled finish. Insulate well, and they won't rot or peel.
- When grilling, keep the lid off the ground by hooking it onto the lid holder.
- Dampers are a simple way to regulate the heat inside your grill.
Pros
- Classic round design works great for distributing heat, strong price point, easy to clean ash, works well for all types of grilling, large grilling space, optional rotisserie kit available
Cons
- Not meant as a portable grill, other units are better at smoking
2. Best Charcoal Grill - Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Kooker Charcoal Barbecue Grill and Smoker, Black
If you want to relive your college days, The Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker charcoal grill looks a bit like a beer keg. Char-Griller based this grill's design on the Kamado cooking technique, which originated in Japan roughly 3,000 years ago.
The Char-Griller Kamado grill has 314 square inches of primary cooking space with another 133 square inches on a warming rack (447 square inches of cooking space in total) so this charcoal grill is a nice option for those who need to grill a lot of meat for parties. Its tripod design has two wheels with a third peg leg for stability. The Char-Griller Akorn features a powder-coated exterior finish, a porcelain-coated steel interior finish. Bottom damper to control airflow for precise temperature control
The Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Grill will let you experience the best of both worlds when it comes to outdoor cooking. You'll be able to grill up a storm on the large 20" diameter cooking surface, and then use the included smoker box to add that "low and slow" flavor to your food. With features like the triple-wall steel insulated design, cast iron grates, 8" locking caster wheels, and removable warming rack, this grill is easy to use and easy to clean - perfect for any outdoor cookout.
Feature
- The heat is kept in by the triple walls of insulation.
- Consists of long-lasting steel structure that is not easily damaged
- Top and bottom dampers that can be adjusted
- Convenient ashtray that can be dumped with little effort ensures that cleanup is a breeze.
- Grilling rack made of removable stainless steel for preheating
- A heat gauge made of stainless steel for your grill
- Cast-iron cooking grids
- Keeps in place temperatures between -40 C and +1 B
Pros
- Versatile grill for both smoking and grilling, a cool-looking design, retains heat over the long term, large cooking space, reasonable price point versus similarly designed grills
Cons
- Long-term construction is questionable, and doesn't work for indirect grilling.
3.Best Charcoal Grill - Broil King 911470 Keg 5000 Kamado Grill, 18.5-IN Diameter, Metallic Charcoal
The keg-shaped design for a grilling device has been a popular option for centuries. This design shape has made its way to the top of the list of modern charcoal grills. With a classic Kamado-style design, the Keg 5000 is designed to retain heat and moisture ensuring delicious and flavorful food every time. Unlike most Kamado-style grills that are made from ceramic.
A total of 480 square inches of cooking surface is available with the Broil King Keg 5000. Some 280 square inches are in the primary cooking grate and 200 square inches are in the secondary cooking grate. with its insulated steel design, cast iron top damper, aluminum lower damper, and heavy-duty gasket, the Keg uses up to 2X less charcoal than a typical charcoal grill/smoker, so you can spend more on food and less on fuel.
The Broil King Keg 5000 Kamado Grill is a professional-grade grill that features an insulated double-walled steel body for superior heat retention and performance. The cast iron top damper, aluminum lower damper, and heavy-duty gasket ensure that the heat is evenly distributed and uses up to 2X less charcoal than a typical charcoal grill/smoker, making it easier and more affordable to cook like a pro.
The Broil King 911470 Keg 5000 Kamado Grill is perfect for anyone who wants the best of both worlds: an easy-to-clean grill that also offers amazing grilling performance. This grill comes with a removable steel ash catcher, making it quick and easy to clean out any excess ash – something many kamado grills don't offer. Plus, it comes with a host of extras, like a chrome swing-away secondary rack, detachable resin side shelves, mobility cart, and multi-tool. And with a 10-year warranty on the grill body and a 2-year warranty on parts, you can rest assured that this grill will last for years to come.
Pros
- Holds heat inside efficiently, insulation keeps the exterior cool to the touch, uses less charcoal than other grills because of efficient design, mounts to a trailer hitch for towing, and the large grilling surface
Cons
- Even though high price points, this unit is a good value versus some other keg-shaped designs. Maintaining consistent smoking temperature can be tricky
4. Weber 15502001 Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill
Big grills are a bit difficult to take with you for tailgating or camping, so we'd recommend the Lodge Cast Iron Sportsman's Grill as the best portable charcoal grill option, This rugged, charcoal hibachi-style grill is perfect for picnics, tailgating, and car camping or patio. The Lodge Cast Iron Sportsman's Grill measures only 19 by 10.25 by 8.25 inches. The Lodge Cast Iron Sportsman's Grill does a good job of retaining its heat, thanks to its cast-iron construction. MADE IN THE USA.
The Weber Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to grill like a pro. The electronic Touch-N-Go ignition system makes it easy to get your grill started, and the 363-square-inch cooking area provides plenty of space for all your grilling needs. The One-Touch cleaning system makes cleanup a breeze, and the built-in lid thermometer ensures that your food is always cooked perfectly. With its stylish design and durable construction, the Weber Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill is sure to be a favorite addition to any outdoor kitchen.
Feature
- Initiation via electronic touchpad and propane gas (propane tank not included)
- Dimensions (with the lid closed): 43.5"H x 48"W x 30"D | Amount of 91 pounds
- Porcelain-enameled bowl and lid measuring 22 inches in diameter and 363 square inches in cooking space.
- One-Touch cleaning system made of aluminum-alloy steel; ashtray may be removed and replaced with a larger one;
- Timer and thermometer may be removed and replaced with an LCD display.
Pros
- Low price point, easy to take grill on trips, charcoal heats up quickly, cooking surface height is adjustable, nice looking design, easy to spread charcoal efficiently
Cons
- Small cooking surface, difficult to clean, some users report cracking of the unit
5.Best Charcoal Grill - IG Charcoal BBQ Grill
The IG Charcoal Barbecue Grill is so large (Dimensions: 18" W x 61.5" L x 36" H. Weight: 71lb), it offers a bigger workspace than circular grills, which is great for larger cuts of food, and, of course, parties. You can keep a charcoal grill outside, uncovered in the wind, rain, ice, snow, and briny air. It is extremely easy to clean, and as mentioned above, uniquely weather-resistant. If you've got the space, and the intent on grilling and keeping one grill for as long as possible, this is the best pick for almost anyone looking for a durable, long-lasting charcoal grill.
This stainless steel barbeque grill is perfect for grilling skewers and kebabs! The adjustable heat control and Santa Maria-style lifting mechanism make it easy to use, while the ash collector tray makes cleanup a breeze. The large grill top and foldable side trays provide plenty of space to cook your food, and the included skewers are a great way to get started. Don't miss out - order your IG Charcoal BBQ today!
Feature
- Controlled Heating using a Santa Maria-Style Lifting Mechanism
- Cleanup Is a Breeze Thanks to the Ash Tray
- Extra-Sized Grilling Surface with Collapsible Side Trays
- Kebabs and skewers have never had a better friend on the grill.
- 18" W x 61.5" L x 36" H. Amount of Weight: 71 lb
Pros
- Stainless steel, sturdy, weather-resistant, easy to assemble, adjustable charcoal bed
Cons
- Pricy, no cover, side tables can't bear too much weight.
6.Best Charcoal Grill - CASUSGRILL Instant Biodegradable Grill
CasusGrill Instant Biodegradable Grill is small, sturdy, easy to use, and costs little (if any) more than a bag of charcoal. This 100% natural one-time-use grill is great for any occasion from sporting events, hiking, a day at the beach, hunting, and fishing trips. It is made from eco-friendly and biodegradable materials that consist of Lavastone thermal insulation to retain the high heat, Bamboo Charcoal Briquettes with quick Oxylite, an all-natural bamboo grill grate, and biodegradable FSC cardboard.
BBQing has never been so convenient! With our small, single-use grill, you can have an amazing BBQ experience nearly anywhere. Our innovative grill is made entirely from natural materials that can be broken down back into the earth, making it completely biodegradable. Throw away your grill without worry – CasusGrill is good for the environment and your taste buds!
CasusGrill Single Use Biodegradable Mini Grill: BBQ on the go with this easy-to-use, disposable grill!
The CasusGrill is perfect for anyone who loves a good barbecue but wants to do their part in reducing emissions. This miniature grill is made of biodegradable materials and is easily portable, making it perfect for camping trips or anytime you need a quick and easy grill solution.
Feature
- Simple, quick, tidy, and quick to implement
- Totally eco-friendly, built from cardboard, bamboo, and lava stone
- Green, producing up to 50% less carbon dioxide emissions
- Thermal insulation made of all-natural bamboo grit and lava stone
- There is no need for metals, chemicals, or lighter fluid.
Pros
- Affordable, tidy, easy to set up, sturdy, eco-friendly, and an interesting conversation piece
Cons
- Coals only stay hot for 60-80 minutes (though there's still time to slow-cook something light afterward, especially s' mores).
7. PK Grills PK360 Outdoor Charcoal Grill and Smoker Combination
The PK Grills Charcoal Grill and Smoker is the perfect combo for anyone who loves barbecue. Whether you're looking to quickly grill up some burgers or want to smoke a rack of ribs, this smoker has you covered. With its four-point venting system, you can easily adjust the heat to get the perfect cooking temperature.
Looking for a superior quality charcoal grill and smoker that will heat evenly and cook your food perfectly every time? Look no further than the PK Grills Charcoal Grill and Smoker. Made of cast aluminum, this grill is rust-proof and exceptionally durable. It also detaches from its stand for easy transport and can be used on tabletops or other surfaces. Whether you're camping, tailgating, fishing/hunting, or just grilling in your backyard, the PK Grills Charcoal Grill and Smoker is sure to meet your needs.
Pros
- No gaskets for maintenance or replacement like regular kamado
- 2 wonderful oval cooking zones
- Firm and sturdy
- Portable for picnics and camping
- Intuitive and effective air control
- Plenty of cooking space when combined with the extra grill above
Cons
- Difficult to clean grease on the bottom of the grill. I scrape and wipe with a paper towel.
- Should come with a hanging bucket and be put under the grill to catch the ashes
- There is no factory solution for pure indirect cooking with deflectors
8. Gravity Series 560 Digital Charcoal Grill + Smoker
If you're serious about your smoking, then you need a serious smoker. And that's where the Masterbuilt MB20040220 Gravity Series 560 Digital Charcoal Grill + Smoker comes in. With an ingenious digital design, this smoker can reach temperatures of up to 700°F in just 13 minutes, giving you complete control over your cook time and temperature. The built-in temperature gauge and meat probe thermometer make sure your food is cooked perfectly every time, while the reversible smoke + sear cast-iron grates let you do low and slow smoking or high heat searing. Plus, with a 10 lb. capacity for lump charcoal or 16 lbs. for briquettes, this smoker can handle hours of use without breaking a sweat.
Feature
- Heats up to 225 degrees in 7 minutes and 700 degrees in 13 minutes.
- Cooking times and temperatures may be set on the digital display, and the appliance can be controlled remotely through WIFI or Bluetooth DigitalFan.
- Meat probe thermometer and temperature gauge are integrated for consistent results at any cooking temperature.
- The 10 lb. of lump charcoal or 16 lb. of briquettes that may be stored in the GravityFed hopper will last 12-15 hours.
- Comes with cast-iron grate that can be used for either slow smoking or high-temperature searing and can be flipped over for use.
- There is a total of 560 square inches of cooking area, split between two porcelain-coated warming/smoking racks.
Pros
- The Pit Boss 340 has excellent temperature control, with a fan that can be adjusted to maintain the desired temperature.
- The cooking chamber is double-walled and there is plenty of space to add an additional rack.
- The app could use some improvement but it is still very helpful in monitoring the pit temperature and meat remotely.
Cons
- The design of the grill is loved, but the metal body is soft and easily bent.
9. Rambler Tabletop Charcoal Grill
This portable charcoal grill from Oklahoma Joe's is perfect for anyone who loves the taste of grilled food but doesn't always have the space or time to use a full-size grill. It's made of heavy-duty steel for durability, and the thick cast-iron grates produce a perfect sear every time. The height-adjustable charcoal tray also lets you cook low and slow, so you can get that delicious smoky flavor on whatever you're grilling. Plus, with the large air dampers, you can control the airflow to get that perfect level of heat. And when you're done grilling, the full-size removable ash pan makes cleaning up a breeze.
Feature
- Durability is guaranteed by the use of high-quality steel in its construction.
- Searing is a breeze on the heavy cast-iron grates.
- The charcoal tray's height adjustment allows for cooking at high temperatures or on the grill. Tones that are soft and slow
- Effective regulation of airflow is made possible by massive air dampers.
- Complete with a convenient ashtray that can be removed for a thorough cleaning.
Pros
- The grill is a perfect fit for their deck and was easy to assemble.
- The cast-iron grates can take a bit of getting used to, but once they figured it out the food has been great.
- There is a good amount of space on the grill for cooking multiple items at once.
Cons
- Because the lid new Rambler grill is warped, leaving a large gap on the left side.
10. The Best-Looking Charcoal Grill: Napoleon Charcoal Professional Cart Grill
Looking for a professional-grade charcoal grill that will help you create delicious meals? Look no further than the Napoleon PRO605CSS. This grill features a cooking area of 18 by 33.5 inches, making it perfect for cooking large quantities of food at once. The cast-iron cooking grids provide even heat and prevent food from falling through, while the adjustable charcoal bed allows you to control the temperature for perfect results every time. Plus, the large side shelves provide ample prep and staging space, and integrated tool hooks keep your tools close at hand. Whether you're searing steaks or smoking ribs, this grill has everything you need to get the job done right.
The Napoleon PRO605CSS Professional Charcoal Grill is perfect for the BBQ lover who wants to take their skills to the next level. This grill features an integrated temperature gauge and adjustable venting, which makes it easy to accurately gauge and adjust the heat inside the grill. The rear charcoal-burner also allows you to spit-roast meals, adding a unique flavor that other charcoal grills can't replicate. And with the generous storage cabinet below the grill, you can easily store your favorite charcoal and smoking woods, as well as accessories and tools. With its professional tone of voice and ability to create amazing charcoal meals, this grill is sure to impress.
Pros
- The Napoleon Grill is a high-quality barbecue that is well-constructed and easy to use.
- It has a large cooking surface that can accommodate multiple pieces of meat or fish at once and comes with a variety of accessories that make it versatile.
- The grill heats up quickly and evenly, making it perfect for grilling or smoking meats.
Cons
- To add charcoal while grilling, you must squeeze through the little front door.
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There are many ways to classify charcoal grills into different categories, mostly based on usage and space. Therefore, when choosing a charcoal grill, you need to pay attention to the following:
- Purpose of use.
- Should buy charcoal grill electric or battery.
- Origin of the product.
- The diameter of the grill.
- The thickness of the baking tray
- Replacement parts
A charcoal grill is a metal/ceramic container that can hold burning charcoal in the bottom. You'll place the food you want to be cooked on a metal grate in the center of the container, above the charcoal. This is the cooking surface. Closing the metal container's lid when cooking will hold in the heat. The direct heat from the charcoal sears the bottom of the food, while the indirect heat circulating throughout the grill cooks the food. Leave the lid off the grill if you only want to use direct heat.
On cold winter days, the demand for charcoal grills is skyrocketing, but the market has a lot of models to choose from, perhaps with this article, we can choose a stove It's good to a charcoal grill, wish you a smart choice.