Choosing the right charcoal grill can be a daunting task, as there are many factors to consider, such as size, budget, and features. However, once you know what you’re looking for, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect grill for your needs.
Here’s a quick overview of some of the best charcoal grills on the market, along with some tips for choosing the right one for you:
| Our Top 5 Picks | BUYING LINK |
|---|---|
| 1. Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill | Check Today’s Price on Amazon |
| 2. Dyna-Glo DGN486DNC-D Heavy Duty Charcoal Grill | Check Today’s Price on Amazon |
| 3. PK Grills PK300-BCX Portable Charcoal BBQ Grill and Smoker | Check Today’s Price on Amazon |
| 4. Weber Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill | Check Today’s Price on Amazon |
| 5. Char-Griller 2121 Super Pro Charcoal Grill | Check Today’s Price on Amazon |
1. Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch
The Weber Original Kettle Premium is a top-of-the-line charcoal grill for serious grillers who want a versatile and durable option. It’s not the most portable or easiest to use, but the superior heat retention, convenient features, and classic design make it a favorite among charcoal enthusiasts.
Key Features:
- Cooking Capacity: Holds up to 13 burgers (with Weber burger press)
- Heat Retention: Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl for superior heat retention and rust resistance
- Easy Cleaning: One-Touch cleaning system with high-capacity ash catcher
- Convenient Features: Built-in lid thermometer, rust-resistant aluminum dampers, lid hook, hinged cooking grate
Pros:
- Classic and durable design
- Versatile for grilling, smoking, and indirect cooking
- Easy to use and clean
- Well-built and weatherproof
Cons:
- Can be heavy and difficult to move
- May require more practice to achieve consistent temperature control compared to gas grills
- Some assembly required
2. Dyna-Glo DGN486DNC-D Heavy Duty Charcoal Grill
The Dyna-Glo DGN486DNC-D Heavy Duty Charcoal Grill is a great choice for serious grillers who want a powerful and versatile option. It’s not the most portable or convenient grill, but its impressive features and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for those who love to cook outdoors.
Key Features:
- Charcoal tray adjustment system: Fine-tune your heat control for perfect searing or slow and low cooking.
- Heavy-duty cast-iron grates: Seared to perfection every time, these grates retain heat for even cooking and juicy results.
- Spacious cooking area: With 686 square inches of cooking space, you can grill up to 24 hamburgers at once, making it ideal for large gatherings.
- Durable construction: Built to last, this grill features a heavy-duty cart with side shelves, storage basket, and sturdy wheels for easy maneuverability.
- Adjustable flue and temperature gauge: Maintain precise control over your cooking temperature with the adjustable flue and easy-to-read temperature gauge.
Pros:
- Versatile: Perfect for grilling, smoking, and searing
- Powerful: Charcoal tray system provides excellent heat control
- Durable: Built to last with heavy-duty materials
- Spacious: Plenty of room for all your grilling needs
- Convenient: Side shelves, storage basket, and wheels make grilling a breeze
Cons:
- Large and heavy: May be difficult to move for some users
- Requires charcoal: Not as convenient as gas grills for quick grilling sessions
- Assembly required: Some assembly is required out of the box
3. PK Grills PK300-BCX Portable Charcoal BBQ Grill and Smoker
The PK Grills PK300-BCX isn’t just your average charcoal grill—it’s a meticulously crafted masterpiece for the true grilling connoisseur. It seamlessly blends portability with exceptional grilling and smoking capabilities, making it the ultimate companion for outdoor culinary adventures.
Key Features:
- Portable Powerhouse: Don’t let the “portable” label fool you. This grill packs a punch with 300 square inches of cooking space, easily accommodating everything from juicy burgers to a Thanksgiving turkey. The durable cast aluminum construction ensures it can handle the heat, while the innovative durahinge design provides stability and ease of use.
- Flavor Unmatched: Charcoal reigns supreme when it comes to authentic grilling flavor, and the PK300-BCX embraces it wholeheartedly. No gas or pellets can replicate the smoky goodness you’ll achieve with this grill.
- Versatility Reigns: This isn’t just a grill; it’s a grilling and smoking powerhouse. The unique four-point venting system allows you to master both low and slow smoking for melt-in-your-mouth ribs or crank up the heat for perfectly seared steaks. The 3-inch taller design and hinged cooking grid make managing charcoal and controlling temperature a breeze.
- Two-Zone Cooking: The proprietary capsule shape isn’t just for aesthetics. It creates an ideal environment for two-zone cooking, letting you grill over direct heat on one side and smoke low and slow on the other.
Pros:
- Unmatched versatility: Grills, smokes, sears, and slow cooks with ease
- Exceptional heat control: Four-point venting system and two-zone cooking for ultimate precision
- Durable and portable: Cast aluminum construction built to last, yet surprisingly lightweight
- Flavorful results: Charcoal grilling at its finest
Cons:
- Higher price point: Compared to basic charcoal grills, the PK300-BCX comes at a premium
- Learning curve: Mastering the nuances of charcoal grilling and two-zone cooking might take some practice
4. Weber Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Touch-N-Go Gas Ignition System
The Weber Performer Deluxe is the perfect choice for grillers who want the best of both worlds: the flavor of charcoal with the convenience of gas ignition and modern features. It’s an investment that will bring years of delicious grilling experiences to your backyard.
Key Features:
- Effortless Ignition: Skip the charcoal chimney thanks to the Touch-N-Go gas ignition system. Light your briquettes with the push of a button, saving time and frustration.
- Spacious Cooking: With 363 square inches of porcelain-enameled cooking space, you’ll have ample room to grill up burgers, steaks, and everything in between for your hungry crew.
- Simple Cleanup: The One-Touch cleaning system makes getting rid of ash a breeze. Pull the lever, and the ashes fall into the easily removable catcher, leaving your grill pristine.
- Convenient Features: A built-in lid thermometer helps you monitor cooking temperatures, while a removable LCD timer keeps track of grilling time. The side table provides extra prep space, and the sturdy cart makes the grill easy to move around.
Pros:
- Convenience: Gas ignition for easy charcoal lighting
- Versatility: Spacious cooking area and two-zone grilling allow for various cooking methods
- Easy cleaning: One-Touch system and removable ash catcher simplify cleanup
- Durable: Porcelain-enameled bowl and lid resist rust and weather
- Functional design: Built-in features like the thermometer, timer, and side table enhance grilling experience
Cons:
- Heavy: 91 lbs weight makes it less portable than other grills
- Higher price: Comes at a premium compared to basic charcoal grills
- Gas ignition reliance: Requires refilling the propane tank
5. Char-Griller 2121 Super Pro Charcoal Grill and Smoker
The Char-Griller 2121 Super Pro is a no-nonsense charcoal grill and smoker built for those who demand serious grilling firepower. Forget bells and whistles – this grill focuses on what matters most: ample cooking space, durable construction, and efficient heat control.
Key Features:
- Spacious Grilling Arena: With 570 square inches of heavy-gauge steel cooking surface, this grill can handle anything from a dozen burgers to a whole Thanksgiving turkey. No more juggling food or cramming ingredients – spread out and sear in style.
- Searing Powerhouse: Cast-iron grates retain heat like a champ, delivering even heat distribution and perfect sears that lock in juices and flavor. Get those restaurant-quality grill marks you’ve been dreaming of.
- Adjustable Heat Control: No need for constant micromanagement. The adjustable grate system lets you easily control heat zones, allowing you to grill over direct heat on one side and smoke low and slow on the other.
- Built to Last: Heavy-gauge steel construction ensures this grill can withstand the heat and the elements. It’s not just a summer fling; it’s a loyal grilling companion for years to come.
- Functional Design: Don’t let the simplicity fool you. The airtight flanged hood traps heat and smoke for efficient cooking, while the easy-dump ash pan and handy shelves make cleanup and grilling prep a breeze.
Pros:
- Spacious cooking surface: Perfect for feeding a crowd or grilling large cuts of meat
- Durable construction: Built to last with heavy-gauge steel and cast-iron grates
- Efficient heat control: Adjustable grate system for direct and indirect grilling
- Simple and functional design: Easy to use and maintain
- Affordable: Great value for the features and performance
Cons:
- Basic design: Lacks some bells and whistles of higher-end grills
- Heavy: Not the most portable option
- May require more practice: Cast-iron grates and heat control might take some getting used to compared to gas grills
Final Verdict
Budget:
- What is your approximate budget range for a charcoal grill?
Cooking Needs:
- What types of foods do you envision grilling most often (burgers, steaks, whole chickens, large roasts, etc.)?
- How many people do you typically cook for?
Portability:
- Do you need a grill that can be easily transported, or will it have a permanent spot in your backyard?
Features:
- Which features are essential to you (gas ignition, large cooking area, side tables, easy cleanup, etc.)?
Experience Level:
- Are you comfortable managing charcoal and adjusting heat, or would you prefer a more user-friendly option?
Style:
- Do you have a preference for kettle-style grills, barrel-style grills, or other designs?
Once I have a clearer understanding of your priorities, I can confidently guide you to the charcoal grill that perfectly suits your needs!