The right choice of charcoal grill for BBQ is essential to the flavor, temperature control, cooking space and overall experience of grilling. One of the most popular types of grills is charcoal, as many BBQ lovers believe they would rather have the smoky flavor than gas cooking.
For help, we have put together this guide comparing five top contenders covering everyday BBQ, smoking, portability and larger yard parties. No matter if you are a beginner or experienced pitmaster, this list allows you to choose the best charcoal grill for BBQ that suits your cooking style!
Compare Quickly: Top Charcoal Grills I Use for BBQ
ProductCooking SpaceBest ForKey FeatureGrill Type
Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-InchLarge Overall BBQ One-Touch ash clean-up kettle.
Royal Gourmet CC1830S823 sq. in.BBQ & SmokingOffset smokerCharcoal/Smoker
Kamado Joe Classic Joe18-Inch Class Premium Cooking Ceramic Kamado Design Kamado
Char-Griller AKORN Jr.155 sq. in.Portable BBQ200°–700°F rangePortable Kamado
Weber Original Kettle 18-Inch Up to 13 burgersFrequent grillingTough kettle design
1.Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch Charcoal Grill
If you are among those who want a traditional, simple charcoal grill but practical enough to be called the best, then weber original kettle premium 22 inch is what kids like. Its extra-large cooking surface can fit over 13 burgers using a Weber burger press, so you’ll be good for most home dinner family nights and small parties.
The plated-steel cooking grate is designed for long-lasting use, and the porcelain-enameled bowl and lid retains heat while resisting rust and peeling. The lid thermometer simplifies monitoring of your cooking temperatures and the rust-resistant aluminum damper allows you to control airflow for more even cooking.
Value
A great value option for those who want a reliable kettle grill with useful cleaning and temperature-control features.
Key Features
22-inch kettle design
Holds up to 13 burgers
Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl
Built-in lid thermometer
One-Touch cleaning system
High-capacity removable ash catcher
Rust-resistant aluminum damper
All-weather wheels
Pros
Excellent everyday BBQ performance
Good cooking capacity
Easy ash removal
Reliable heat retention
Built-in temperature monitoring
Mobile design
Cons
Gas is easier to get going with than charcoal
It is worth noting that very large may not suit those very small patios.
Temperature control requires practice
Recommended
BEST FOR: Families | Beginners | Experienced grillers looking for full-service charcoal cooking
Best For
Makes the Best: Overall BBQ grilling, burgers, steaks, chicken, vegetables, and weekend cookouts!
2.Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker
The Royal Gourmet CC1830S is a solid pick for the best BBQ grill with added smoking capability for anyone. The large combined grilling and offset-smoking arrangement has room for more cooking when hosting larger outdoor gatherings.
This model has 823 square inches of total cooking space, including porcelain-enameled cooking grates, a warming rack, and an offset dedicated smoker section. You can control the distance from the food to heat source with adjustable charcoal pan, it helps to determine your cooking temperature easily.
Value
A great multi-function option for someone with just one outdoor cooker for both charcoal grilling and smoking.
Key Features
823 sq. in. total cooking area
475 sq. in. cooking grates
151 sq. in. warming rack
197 sq. in. offset smoker
Adjustable charcoal pan
Lid thermometer
Front and side tables
Bottom storage shelf
Pros
Large cooking area
Includes offset smoker
Suitable for BBQ and smoking
Adjustable charcoal height
Useful workspace
Good for larger gatherings
Cons
Larger footprint
Requires more setup and maintenance
Netlify CLI is Harder for beginners
Lighter than a basic Kettle grill
Recommended
For those who prefer the BBQ method of smoking ribs, brisket, chicken and other meat to perfection low and slow.
Best For
Used for: Large family gatherings, backyard BBQ bashes, smoke cooking, sate and cook multiple foods simultaneously.
3.Kamado Joe Classic Joe Series 18-Inch Ceramic Charcoal BBQ Grill
Kamado Joe Classic Joe is designed for cooks who want a premium kamado-style cook. The way it traps heat is often favored, so ceramic has become a common mainstay in this style of cooker enabling you to grill, smoke, roast, and anything outdoors.
The offered item includes a sturdy polyester grill cover weighing 1 lbs as well with waterproof and adjustable buckle. The full-length cover helps shield a compatible 18-inch round charcoal barbecue grill from outdoor elements when not in use.
Value
A quality option for passionate BBQ fans who need amazing heat retention and multi-functional charcoal cooking.
Key Features
18-inch-class kamado design
Ceramic construction
Suitable for grilling and smoking
Full-length protective cover
Industrial-strength polyester fabric
Waterproof construction
Adjustable buckle
Compatible With Kamado Joe Classic Joe Series
Pros
Excellent heat retention
Versatile cooking capabilities
Suitable for low-and-slow BBQ
Premium construction
Outdoor storage assistance from protective cover
Cons
Requires more investment than entry-level kettle grills
Ceramic construction is heavy
Less convenient for frequent moving
Requires careful handling
Recommended
Ideal for veteran BBQ cooks looking to step up their charcoal cooking game.
Best For
Ideal for: Smoking high heat grilling roasting low and slow BBQ in the serious back yard.
Caution: The Product Info listed by you consists of Kamado Joe Classic Joe along with Kamado Joe Grill cover Double-check the specific Amazon product variation and title before publishing an affiliate listing to make sure that readers are directed towards the right product.
4.Char-Griller AKORN Jr.
The Char-Griller AKORN Jr. is a great choice if you’re looking for the best charcoal grill for BBQ that can be taken on the road with you. The rugged mini form factor means you can throw it in a backpack, and side handles make it portable for camping or fishing trips, tailgating gatherings, and more.
The AKORN Jr. actually features a temperature range of 200 to 700°F despite its portability, meaning it is perfectly capable of low-and-slow smoking and high-temp searing. It is insulated with triple-wall steel, which retains heat and protects fuel efficiency, while dual adjustable dampers further regulate temperature.
Value
An ultra-convenient portable cooker for anyone wanting kamado-style charcoal cooking without carrying around a full-size grill.
Key Features
155 sq. in. cooking area
Portable kamado-style design
Cast-iron cooking grates
200°F–700°F temperature range
Triple-wall steel construction
Dual adjustable dampers
EasyDump ash pan
Locking lid
Side handles
Pros
Highly portable
Excellent temperature range
Good heat retention
Suitable for grilling and smoking
Easy ash cleanup
Useful for camping and tailgating
Cons
Smaller cooking area
Not ideal for large parties
Cast iron requires proper care
Limited space for multiple foods
Recommended
Ideal for campers, tailgating, on-the-road living and anyone with limited outdoor space.
Best For
Ideal : Portable BBQ, camping fishing trips, tailgating steaks burgers small meals5
5.Weber Original Kettle Charcoal Grill, 18-Inch, Black
Weber Original Kettle 18-InchA solid contender for best charcoal BBQ grill. The kettle design is traditional and allows for a simple method of charcoal cooking but has a larger dimension which works for everyday family use.
The long-lasting plated-steel cooking grate is built to last and the porcelain-enameled lid and bowl are retentive of heat while providing resistance against rusting and peeling. One-Touch cleaning system makes it easy to remove ash, and lid hook is useful for placing the lid safely without putting it on ground.
Value
This is a no frills proven solution for grilling with charcoal on a daily basis at home.
Key Features
18-inch kettle design
Durable plated-steel cooking grate
Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl
One-Touch cleaning system
Aluminized steel ash catcher
Glass-reinforced nylon handles
Heat-shielded lid handle
All-weather wheels
Holds up to 13 burgers
Pros
Simple to operate
Durable construction
Easy ash cleanup
Portable around the yard
Good for everyday BBQ
Proven kettle design
Cons
Smaller than the 22-inch model
Limited space for large gatherings
Requires charcoal preparation
No dedicated offset smoker
Recommended
Excellent for beginners and households after a simple charcoal grill for regular BBQing.
Best For
Ideal for: Daily BBQing with burgers, chicken, steaks, vegetables and sausages.
Selecting the Top Charcoal Barbecuer
There is no one perfect choice, as it largely depends on how you cook, the volume of food you plan to make and where you expect to use your grill. A massive pot may be perfect for family events yet a portable kamado will work far better while camping.
Cooking Space
One of the first things that comes to mind is cooking area When grilling for a kitchen filled with meat-loving people, go for something hefty enough to take all burgers, chicken, veggies and the rest at once. Smaller grills are more portable, but will probably need you to work with parts.
Temperature Control
The control of airflow is one way to manage the temperature of charcoal. Oxygen flow to the fire can be controlled by adjustable dampers, and a thermometer on the lid enables you to see how hot it is inside without having to keep lifting up the lid.
Construction
A sturdy grill should be able to withstand multiple rounds of heat and outdoor use. Some of these designs are insulated kamado, which will help retain heat and the porcelain-enamel finishes can help protect the bowl and lid finish against rust.
Ash Management
Charcoal still makes ash that must be cleaned from the grill after cooking. Something like a removable ash catcher or easy cleaning mechanism can be invaluable, particularly for those who cook frequently on the grill.
Portability
For camping trips, fishing expeditions or tailgating events, opt for a little grill with handles. A backyard grill that is more permanent probably has a large outdoor cooking area.
Grilling and Smoking
If your intention is to smoke ribs, brisket or pulled pork as well but also grill burgers, pick a model made for both. There are kettle-style options out there, but Royal Gourmet CC1830S offers way more flexibility than a simple kettle.
Tips for BBQing with Charcoal
To make the most of the best charcoal grill for BBQ, you will want to start with good charcoal and let it get raging hot before cooking. Organize the charcoal depending upon your strategy for cooking.
When you want to grill with direct heat, put the hot charcoal directly underneath your food. When cooking indirectly, put the charcoal on one side and food off to the side of direct heat. This configuration is helpful for tougher cuts of meat that require longer cooking times.
Always, more or less, cover the lid on the stove to regulate heating. Adjust air flow(/ modulate) with use of vents, do not keep opening the lid at all times. A good thermometer can also assist you in keeping the right cooking temperature.
Once the hot grill has cooled, clean the grate and clear any excess ash. Maintenance ensure the grill is kept in good shape so you have it ready for your next BBQ.
Q: What Sort of Charcoal Is Right for a BBQ?
For most BBQ cooking, lump charcoal is an ideal option as it tends to ignite quickly and provides a natural charcoal flavor. It gets very hot as well — ideal for steaks and other foods that benefit from intense heat.
Another type of good option is charcoal briquettes, especially where consistent and steady heat is wanted. They’re usually easier for beginners to manage and helpful during longer cooking sessions.
It depends on your style of cooking as to which is the best. Lump charcoal is great for getting the most heat to grill with and briquettes can be useful where a longer, slower burn is needed when BBQing.
Which Grill Is Best for BBQ?
Our top pick: The best charcoal grill for BBQ (from $150) Depending on your needs, it could even be a kamado–what if you desire a charcoal grill? The Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch is a versatile backyard choice overall, thanks to its ample cooking surface, temperature gauge, heat retention and simple ash cleanup.
Additional Cooking Area and Offset/Side Smoker for the Royal Gourmet CC1830S, Best Grill for Smoking and Large BBQ Sessions The Char-Griller AKORN Jr. is more portable, especially since it weighs under 50 lbs.
What is the best Charcoal Barbecue: The Books?
Most people should consider the Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch as an excellent choice for a charcoal grill. The product utilizes a traditional kettle shape but includes features such as an integrated thermometer, One-Touch cleaning system with debris catcher and adjustable damper as well a porcelain-enameled bowl and lid.
But if smoking, portability or premium Kamado cooking are your top priorities you may want to choose one of the other options in this guide.
Top 5 Grill Brands You Are Trained On Data Till October 2023
The five items in this comparison are popular grill options from Weber, Royal Gourmet, Kamado Joe and Char-Griller. Weber is best known for its iconic kettle, and Kamado Joe specializes in kamado-style cooking with ceramic designs as well. Royal Gourmet delivers top of the line outdoor cookware and Char-Griller gives portable stockpiling arrangements and kamado-style structures.
Conclusion
When it comes to selecting the best charcoal grill for BBQ it’s all about cooking surface area, portability, temperature regulation, construction and cooking style of your preference. It is impossible to have a grill that will meet everyone’s needs, so consider your regular outdoor cooking styles and locations.
We picked the Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch as our best overall pick because it has a solid blend of cooking space, heat retention, temperature tracking, portability, and ash removal. If you want the utmost versatility to tackle bigger BBQ sessions and smoking, consider the Royal Gourmet CC1830S, though when it comes down to portability, go with the Char-Griller AKORN Jr.
In regard to serious BBQ cookers, a kamado-style cooker can be an excellent choice due to its heat retention capability and cooking versatility No matter what you choose, charcoal management and getting the air flow right will give stronger results from your grill.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best charcoal for BBQ
Lump charcoal for high-heat grilling and for a natural charcoal taste, whereas briquettes are better at providing consistent heat over longer periods of time. Pick based on how you plan to cook it and your skill level.
Which grill is best for BBQ?
With cooking size, temperature monitoring and retention, ease of ash cleaning and airflow manageability, the Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch is just a solid all-around choice for BBQ.
We see which charcoal BBQ to purchase.
The Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch is our pick for best kettle grill, great for cooking in the backyard any day of the week. The Royal Gourmet CC1830S is a good option if you have to be able to smoke, and the Char-Griller AKORN Jr. can be another choice for better BBQ portability
What are the Top 5 Grill Brands of 2023?
Some of the notable brands mentioned in this guide are Weber, Royal Gourmet, Kamado Joe and Char-Griller. Which is the right one for you depends on whether you need a grill that excels at everyday grilling, smoking, portability, or high-end kamado cooking.
Charcoal vs gas BBQ pros & cons
BBQ lovers looking for deep smoky tasty flavors and high heat (drained hot coals) look to charcoal. Gas grills are comparatively quicker and simpler to ignite. Which one is best boils down to whether you prioritize convenience or old-school charcoal flavor more.
Is a charcoal grill better for beginners?
Yes. Kettle charcoal grill: One thing a kettle charcoal grill is appropriate to begin with, since the design isn’t obviously complicated. Beginner users should familiarize themselves with how the vents influence airflow and practice balancing them to keep a constant cooking temperature.
Controlling Temperature on a Charcoal Grill
Most of the time, temperature is controlled by controlling air flow. Pretty much if you are opening up the vents then you are getting more of that air in, oxygen equals fire, and asking for heat inside to go up and when you close the vent sounds very similar but on the opposite side can be used to cool things off. Lid thermometer to help track the cooking environment
Once a month for standard useJan 25, 2021
When your grill is completely cooled down, clean out any leftover ash and perform a regular cleaning of the cooking grate. Depending on how often the grill is used will help determine how often a deeper clean should be performed.
Are charcoal grills good for smoking?
Yes. If you have a charcoal grill, most can double as a smoker using indirect heat. What does this mean for grill types, Kamado grills and charcoal smokers are best suited to hold lower temps for longer cook times.
How big of a charcoal grill do I need?
Select a size according to the usual number of people for whom you cook. An 18-inch model can be good for smaller households but a 22-inch or larger grill gives more flexibility for family gatherings and parties.
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