Best Charcoal Grills
Top Rated Charcoal Grills 2025
There are a wide range of charcoal grills from portable to stand alone models. The most important factor in choosing the best charcoal grill is the cooking performance. Some prefer charcoal over propane or any other type of gas because of the flavor imbued by the charcoal. A charcoal grill is also going to be much cheaper up front. That is one big advantage. Other factors that we considered as we compiled this top 10 list:
1. Sturdy and quality construction
2. An air-tight lid and air vents for temperature control
3. Easy-to-clean grates of durable material like cast iron
4. Side tables for convenient food preparation
6. Ample cooking area space
7. Easily removeable ash tray
8. Even cooking
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306 inches of cooking space |
This charcoal grill for the experimenters out there. It also functions as a smoker. This expands a grill master’s arsenal of techniques in a big way. As a grill…read more
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Grill 22.5 inches in diameter |
The classic kettle design of the Weber 741001 is a crowd pleaser. The 22.5-inch-in-diameter grill radiates heat evenly, and it’s spacious enough to hold several large burgers…read more
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Total of 640 square inches of cooking space |
The perfect size for the average family, the Char-Griller 640-Inch Charcoal Grill/Smoker is also up to the task of serving large parties and barbecues. An air-tight lid seals in the heat for grilling and smoking and effectively snuffs out…read more
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240-square-inches of cooking area |
The Weber Jumbo Joe charcoal grill is a fantastic option for charcoal grilling on the go. This little Weber provides a spacious 240 square inches…read more
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160-square-inches of cooking area |
Portable grills are very handy for grilling at tailgating parties, picnics, and while camping. This little Weber provides enough cooking space and a quality package that will make this your go-to…read more
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Cast iron |
Ideal for small families and intimate gatherings, this Lodge Logic model is a no-fuss charcoal grill that comes with pre-seasoned grates. A durable hibachi-style grill made of cast iron, it heats slowly…read more
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40,800-BTU |
Char-Griller offers an all-in-one package with the 5050 Duo combination grill. You can use propane or charcoal, whatever you like. It also has a side burner for side items or sauces. It’s perfect for the grill master who likes to experiment…read more
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Steel |
The Char-Griller 2121 is a crowd-pleaser for its durable steel construction and superior charcoal grilling performance. We were impressed with how easy it was to assemble and set up—not to mention…read more
Grills Buying Guide
The Benefits of Charcoal Grilling
Regular gas and electric grills are perfectly adequate at searing meats, vegetables, fish, and fruit. However, for the mouth-watering, tender, smoky barbecue taste that you typically get from a smoker at a barbecue restaurant, you can also use a charcoal grill.
The trick to charcoal grilling is cooking foods for a long period at low temperatures. By building a fire at one end of the grill and maintaining control of the airflow, you can effectively slow cook ribs, chicken, or pork for an authentic, smoky barbecue taste.
Charcoal grills have a couple advantages over regular gas grills:
- With fewer moving parts, charcoal grills have a longer lifespan.
- They usually cost less than gas grills. Of course, the fuel you buy to heat them can even out the costs in the long run.
A gas grill can be a more convenient choice because it starts up and cooks faster, but for a rich taste and tender consistency, a charcoal grill is a valuable cooking tool.
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Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany |
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More Top 10 Lists
Top 10 Gas and Propane Grills
There are a wide range of gas grills from portable to stand alone models. The most important aspect of a grill, however, is its cooking performance: A grill should produce a juicy, flavorful steak or burger with a nicely seared exterior… [more]
Top Electric Grills
Electric grills are a great alternative to grills that are in constant need of a fuel source. They are also perfect for those living in apartments or condos that don’t allow open flames… [more]
Filed Under: Charcoal Grills
