Best Charcoal Grills Reviews
(Updated For 2024)
WEBER 14401001 CHARCOAL GRILL
This latest model of Weber’s iconic grill features a 22-inch diameter porcelain-enameled bowl with a cooking area of 363 square inches.
BENEFITS
DRAWBACKS
✓ 22-inch grate provides enough space for 12 decent sized steaks or cook upto 18 hamburger patties
✓ Circular design provides better temperature control
✓ Extra vents on bottom of grill act like a smoker
☓ Steep learning curve
☓ One issue is with the design, specifically the legs. Three legs take up less space, but can become unstable especially when moving
DYNA-GLO CHARCOAL GRILL
Constructed using cold-rolled steel, this charcoal grill from Dyna-Glo is one the heaviest we looked at, despite the compact label.
BENEFITS
DRAWBACKS
✓ 381 square inch cooking area, similar to Weber, and offers a warming shelf for almost the same price
✓ Sturdy design allows you to adjust coal box for different temperatures
✓ Porcelain-enameled grates of cast iron
☓ Not as well designed as Weber grills. Less durable and cheaper materials used
☓ Material very heavy with over 60 pounds makes it hard to move around
ROYAL GOURMET CHARCOAL GRILL
This latest model from Royal Gourmet features a large capacity grill with a built-in offset smoker for a similar price to other grills of the same size.
BENEFITS
DRAWBACKS
✓ Doubles up as a great freestanding charcoal grill
✓ High grade steel and heat-resistant paint prevents firebox flaking
☓ Older models had paint chipping and flaking problems. Ensure you are getting the newer CC1830F version to avoid that
☓ Lid doesn't shut properly sometimes, but there is a one year warranty if you have that issue
✓ Porcelain wire cooking grates lock in more juices to keep meat tender
✓ Adjustable vents
BEAU JARDIN PORTABLE CHARCOAL GRILL
This ultra-portable charcoal grill from Beau Jardin utilises the same kettle design favoured by Weber, but at a third of the weight.
BENEFITS
DRAWBACKS
✓ Durable wheels and handles, easy to pack and transport
☓ Construction nowhere near as solid as Weber
✓ Better heat retention with thick grilling bowl and porcelain-coated steel
✓ All parts are detatchable making it easier to clean
☓ Parts made of cheaper aluminum. This is more of an occasional portable use grill
☓ Lack of heat-resistant handles
UTEN FOLDING PORTABLE GRILL
This basic grill offers an impressive 373 square inches of cooking space which you will struggle to find on any other charcoal grill under $100.
BENEFITS
DRAWBACKS
✓ Very simple grill great for cooking hot dogs and burgers
☓ Doesn't have the same hood found on more expensive grills so can't be used for indrect cooking too much
✓ Easy to throw in trunk of your car and light enough to strap on your back
✓ Air vents on either side of charcoal box so airflow can be controlled
☓ No thermometer or built-in cleaning system