Choosing the right charcoal grill can be a daunting task, with a market flooded with various models boasting different features and price points. This comprehensive review delves into ten of the best charcoal grills available in 2016, providing detailed insights into their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision. We've assessed each grill across key criteria, including build quality, ease of use, cooking performance, and overall value, offering a balanced perspective to guide your purchase. Whether you're a seasoned grilling enthusiast or a first-time buyer, this review will equip you with the knowledge needed to find the perfect charcoal grill to suit your needs and budget.From sturdy, park-style grills built for longevity to compact, portable options ideal for camping trips, this review covers a diverse range of models. We explore grills with innovative features like touch-and-go gas ignition systems and adjustable charcoal crates, alongside classic designs renowned for their durability and performance. Our detailed assessments will highlight the pros and cons of each grill, allowing you to weigh the advantages against potential drawbacks and ultimately choose the best charcoal grill to elevate your outdoor cooking experience.
Pros And Cons
- Great backyard addition
- Solid construction built to last
- Spiral handles stay cool to the touch
- Grill plate sits on shallow grooves, making food fall easily
- Traditional design with innovative features
- Hinged stainless steel cooking grate
- Rust-resistant aluminum vents
- Good seal between grill and lid
- Ash catcher
- 363 square inches of cooking space
- Porcelain-enameled finish for protection
- Adjustable charcoal crates
- Lid-mounted temperature gauge
- Two wheels for mobility
- Chrome-plated bottom shelf
- Touch-and-go gas ignition system
- Heavy-duty gourmet cooking grates
- Built-in lit thermometer
- Glass-reinforced nylon handle
- Removable LCD cooking timer
- No-rust aluminum vent
- Sturdy side metal tabletop
Read more: 10 Best Commercial Charcoal Grills: A Buyer's Guide
Titan Park Heavy Duty Grill
The Titan Park grill boasts a sturdy build, reminiscent of public park grills, promising longevity. Its design, however, presents a drawback: the grill plate rests on shallow grooves, making it prone to food falling off with minimal contact. Despite this, its spiral handles remain cool to the touch, enhancing user safety. This grill offers a solid choice for those prioritizing durability and stability but requiring careful handling.
Its park-style aesthetic might appeal to certain users. The solid construction is a plus but the shallow grooves present a significant usability issue. Consider if its potential drawbacks outweigh its robust build before purchasing.
Marsh Allen 74HH Charcoal Grill
The American-made Marsh Allen 74HH offers a sleek, contemporary design suitable for various budgets. Its three-position adjustable cooking grid and side handles facilitate convenient use and transport. Despite its compact size and easy assembly, the absence of a cover might be a notable consideration for storage and protection from the elements.
Compactness and ease of use are key features. The adjustable cooking grid offers versatility, but the lack of a protective cover could be a deal-breaker for some users. The budget-friendly aspect is appealing, especially for first-time grill owners.
A-LOCKS Portable Charcoal Grill
The A-LOCKS six zero four nine zero zero two is a lightweight, portable grill, ideal for picnics or camping. Its rust-resistant stainless steel frame and foldable legs enhance portability and convenience. The grill's cooking capacity is suitable for three to four people, offering even cooking and effortless cleaning. Durability, however, might be a concern for long-term use.
Portability is a significant strength of this grill. Its features make it a perfect companion for outdoor adventures. However, its long-term durability is questionable, making it more of a temporary solution than a long-term investment.
Dyna-Glo DGN405DN-D Charcoal Grill
The Dyna-Glo DGN405DN-D is a durable, functional grill, perfect for serious grilling enthusiasts. It features a built-in stainless steel thermometer for precise temperature control and has a large cooking area. Its ability to cook 20 hamburgers simultaneously makes it ideal for large gatherings. However, the lid's lack of a tight seal could impact heat retention.
Serious grillers will appreciate its large capacity and precise temperature control. Its durability is noteworthy, but the imperfect lid seal might limit its overall performance in certain conditions. The option of stainless steel or black wooden finish provides aesthetic flexibility.
32-Inch Pit Boss VC251 Charcoal Grill
The 32-inch Pit Boss VC251 provides ample primary and secondary cooking space, enhanced by two foldable side shelves with convenient tool hooks and bottle opener. Its durable cast iron cooking grid and painted, high-temperature resistant lid add to its functionality. While lightweight and easy to move, its long-term durability might need further evaluation.
This grill offers excellent cooking space and practical side features, which greatly enhance its usability. The combination of durability and portability is attractive, although potential users should evaluate the longevity of its painted lid.
Char-Broil Kettleman Charcoal Grill
The Char-Broil Kettleman is a suitable option for backyard barbecues. Its porcelain-enameled finish provides weather protection, while adjustable charcoal crates allow for heat control. Features such as a lid-mounted temperature gauge, two wheels for easy mobility, and a bottom shelf enhance convenience. Durability and long-term performance need further assessment.
The adjustable charcoal crates offer a valuable feature for heat management. The added convenience features, such as the wheels and temperature gauge, make it very user-friendly. However, it's essential to consider the grill's long-term durability before committing to a purchase.
Weber Original Kettle 710001 Charcoal Grill
The iconic Weber Original Kettle 710001 combines classic design with modern features. Its hinged stainless steel cooking grate and rust-resistant aluminum damper provide convenience and control. The grill's good seal, ash catcher, and substantial cooking space (363 square inches) contribute to a positive user experience. Durability is a strong point for this well-established grill.
The convenient hinged grate is a highlight of this model, along with its features that improve usability and long-term performance. The combination of classic design and functional upgrades makes this a strong contender. Its substantial cooking area caters to larger gatherings.
Char-Griller 6720 Charcoal Grill
Designed for Kamado-style cooking, the Char-Griller 6720 offers a lightweight and portable way to grill a variety of foods. The insulated design enhances heat efficiency, using less charcoal while producing tender, juicy results. Its sturdy construction and features like a locking caster and warming rack make it a convenient choice. Overall durability assessment is required.
The Kamado-style design is a key differentiator, providing superior cooking results with efficient heat management. The portability is a plus, and the additional features enhance convenience and usability. Long-term durability should be carefully evaluated.
Fox Outfitters QG LG Charcoal Grill
The Fox Outfitters QG LG offers exceptional portability, ideal for diverse locations, from parks to campsites. Its compact, easy-to-assemble design and carrying bag make transport effortless. Constructed with food-grade stainless steel, it can also accommodate wood for cooking. While compact, its overall durability needs further evaluation.
The portability and versatile fuel options are major selling points. Its compact size is ideal for those needing a portable grill for various locations. The long-term strength and durability, however, should be scrutinized before purchase.
Premium Weber 15501001 Charcoal Grill
The Premium Weber 15501001 stands out with its innovative touch-and-go gas ignition system, effortlessly igniting charcoal briquettes. It includes heavy-duty gourmet cooking grates, a built-in thermometer, a reinforced nylon handle, an LCD cooking timer, and a sturdy side metal tabletop. The combination of high-end features and efficient ignition system makes it a premium option. However, its higher price point needs consideration.
This grill offers a luxurious grilling experience with high-end features and innovative technology. The convenience features and durable construction make it a strong choice, although its higher price is a factor to consider. The gas ignition system is a significant upgrade for convenient charcoal grilling.