Choosing the right portable charcoal grill can be overwhelming with so many options on the market. This comprehensive review cuts through the noise, analyzing key features and comparing top contenders to help you find the perfect grill for your needs. We'll delve into portability, durability, cooking surface area, and unique features of various models, from lightweight camping grills to robust options for larger gatherings. Whether you're a seasoned griller or a novice, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.This review examines popular portable charcoal grills, including the Weber Go Anywhere, Old Smokey, Weber Smokey Joe, Char-Griller Acorn Jr., Char-Griller Sidebox, PK Go, SNS Traveler, Weber Jumbo Joe, and the Oklahoma Joe's Rambler. We'll assess each grill based on its portability, construction materials, cooking surface area, versatility, and price point. Ultimately, we'll reveal our top pick for the best portable charcoal grill of 2025, taking into account performance, durability, and overall value.
Pros And Cons
- Popular
- Many available modifications and accessories
- Difficult to manage venting
- Struggles with indirect cooking
- Similar to Weber Jumbo Joe with upgrades
- Includes temperature probe
- Better vents for higher heat
- Build quality concerns
- Expensive (around $300 with accessories)
- Affordable
- Can be used as an offset with other Char Griller grills
- Cast iron grates
- Low vents for indirect cooking
- Heavy
- Small
- Removable charcoal tray doesn't seal well
- Well-built
- Versatile (can do low and slow or quick cooking)
- Good ash management
- More headspace than Weber Jumbo Joe
- Adjustable charcoal basket
- Heavier than Weber Jumbo Joe (requires two hands to carry)
- More expensive than Weber Jumbo Joe
Read more: 10 Best Commercial Charcoal Grills: A Buyer's Guide
Weight and Portability
Portability is key for a portable grill. Ceramic grills, while offering excellent heat retention, are often too heavy for one-person transport. The Oklahoma Joe's, for example, is almost too heavy to be considered truly portable. On the other hand, the smaller Old Smokey models are exceptionally lightweight and easy to move.
Weight significantly impacts portability. The Old Smokey, especially the smaller 14-inch model, is the lightest option, making it ideal for camping or tailgating. However, lighter grills can sometimes have drawbacks in terms of stability in windy conditions.
Consider the ease of carrying the grill by yourself. A grill's weight should be manageable for convenient transport. Factors such as handle design and overall balance also contribute to ease of carrying. This makes the Old Smokey an ideal option for those who prioritize ease of handling.
Material and Construction
Most portable charcoal grills are made of steel, sometimes with a double-insulated or porcelain-coated enamel finish for durability and longevity. Weber grills, for example, often feature porcelain-enameled steel construction. This provides rust resistance and an attractive finish.
The choice of material affects both durability and the grill's overall weight. Thicker steel will be more robust but also heavier, whereas aluminum or thinner steel options may be lighter but potentially less durable. Ceramic grills offer excellent heat retention but are heavier.
Consider the material's resistance to rust and heat. Steel with a durable coating is preferred, while aluminum provides lightweight portability but may not be as resistant to high temperatures. The specific type of steel is also a factor in durability.
Cooking Space and Features
Cooking surface area is crucial. While some smaller grills like the Commado are compact and lightweight, they lack sufficient cooking space for larger gatherings or meals. Larger grills, such as the Char-Griller Acorn Jr. and Oklahoma Joe's Rambler offer more space.
Consider the grill's features for versatility. Many grills offer modifications or accessories like indirect cooking options or additional grates, enabling diverse cooking methods. Some models have improved ash management systems.
Check for features enhancing cooking convenience and temperature control. Ventilation systems play a role in heat regulation. Built-in temperature gauges or the ability to use external probes increase precision.
Weber Go Anywhere vs. Other Grills
The Weber Go Anywhere has a dedicated following, thanks to its compact size and portability. However, its ventilation system presents a challenge for indirect cooking, which some users find restrictive. Modifications such as risers and rotisseries are common and enhance versatility.
While the Weber Go Anywhere is popular, its smaller cooking space and ventilation may limit its usefulness compared to larger or more versatile options. This makes it ideal for solo cooks or small gatherings.
Consider the limitations of its compact size and ventilation. The Go Anywhere is best suited for direct cooking of smaller quantities of food. For more elaborate cooking, such as indirect cooking, it may be less optimal.
Old Smokey vs. Weber Smokey Joe
The Old Smokey is inexpensive but lacks in wind resistance, affecting its portability. The Weber Smokey Joe, while popular, may be less versatile than the Weber Go Anywhere due to its simpler design. While both are inexpensive, their longevity and features may be a concern.
Both models offer ease of transport, but the Weber Smokey Joe has a stronger lid compared to the Old Smokey. The lid's ability to stay on is important, particularly in windy conditions.
Choose based on price and desired features. The Weber Smokey Joe is known for its simple design and ease of use but may lack advanced features. The Old Smokey is significantly less expensive but less durable and features a less secure lid.
Char-Griller Sidebox and Acorn Jr.
The Char-Griller Sidebox is a heavy-duty, all-steel grill designed to be used as a side burner or standalone unit. It features cast iron grates but its removable charcoal tray doesn't seal well, impacting heat regulation. Its design allows for indirect cooking.
The Char-Griller Acorn Jr. is a popular, affordable option with double-wall insulation and cast iron grates. It offers both direct and indirect cooking capabilities, but its smaller size limits the cooking space.
Select based on desired cooking capacity and features. The Sidebox is great for supplementary cooking or for using with other grills, while the Acorn Jr. is ideal for smaller meals or gatherings. Both grills prioritize affordability.
PK Go and SNS Traveler
The PK Go is an expensive, high-quality aluminum grill with integrated hinges. While durable, its price point may be prohibitive for many. It has a unique design, offering both direct and indirect cooking with the potential for expansion.
The SNS Traveler grill is similar to the Weber Jumbo Joe but with some upgrades. It includes a temperature probe and features improved venting for higher temperatures. However, some have expressed concerns regarding its build quality.
Consider the trade-off between cost and features. The PK Go is a high-end grill, but its high price may outweigh the benefits for some users. The SNS Traveler offers features similar to other models at a slightly higher price point, with potential build quality issues.
Weber Jumbo Joe vs. Oklahoma Joe's Rambler
The Weber Jumbo Joe and the Oklahoma Joe's Rambler are both popular choices for their versatility and relatively affordable prices. The Oklahoma Joe's Rambler offers more cooking space and a more robust build quality but is heavier and more expensive than the Weber.
Portability and price are key factors when choosing between these two. The Weber is lighter and less expensive, making it easier to transport and more accessible. The Oklahoma Joe's Rambler offers greater capacity and sturdier construction.
Consider your priorities when deciding between these two. For ease of transport and a lower price point, the Weber Jumbo Joe is preferred. For greater cooking capacity and a more robust design, the Oklahoma Joe's Rambler is the better option.
Conclusion: The Best Portable Charcoal Grill
After a thorough comparison, the Oklahoma Joe's Rambler emerges as the best portable charcoal grill overall. While more expensive than some competitors, its robust build quality, ample cooking space, and efficient ash management outweigh the higher price. The versatility of both direct and indirect cooking is also a major plus.
The Rambler's durable construction ensures long-term use, which makes the higher initial cost justifiable. Features like the adjustable charcoal basket, convenient ash pan, and ample cooking space make it a superior choice for various cooking styles.
Despite some minor drawbacks, like its slightly heavier weight, the Oklahoma Joe's Rambler stands out due to its overall performance, versatility, and longevity. It proves that investing in a well-made grill can be a worthwhile decision.