Unleash your inner grill master with our comprehensive guide to the best charcoal grills of 2024! This year's top 10 list showcases a diverse range of models, from budget-friendly options packed with features to premium, high-performance grills designed for serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a grilling novice, we've got the perfect charcoal grill to elevate your backyard BBQ experience. We've meticulously reviewed each grill, considering factors like cooking area, temperature control, ease of cleaning, and overall durability to ensure this list helps you find the ideal match for your needs and budget.From classic kettle grills to innovative hybrid designs that combine fire pits and grilling capabilities, our selection includes something for everyone. Explore versatile models perfect for both grilling and smoking, compact options ideal for smaller spaces, and larger grills capable of handling large gatherings. Discover the features that matter most, from adjustable charcoal trays for precise temperature control to convenient side tables and integrated thermometers. Get ready to discover your perfect grilling companion and create unforgettable outdoor culinary memories.
Pros And Cons
- 360 square inches of cooking surface
- Improved design and construction
- Cosmetically appealing
- Doubles as a fire pit (can use wood or charcoal)
- Meshed body allows viewing of the fire
- Rechargeable power pack with fan to control flames and reduce smoke
- USB port for powering other devices
- Side tables for holding utensils and platters
- Built-in thermometer in the lid
- Warming rack
- Large, easily removable ashtray
- Wide grates
- Crank to adjust charcoal pan height for smoking
- Door for easy charcoal replenishment
- Shelf below the grill for storage
- Requires frequent charcoal additions
- Combines smoking and grilling
- 12-hour cooking time with charcoal hopper
- Fan circulates hot air
- Can use wood chips for smoking
- Digital temperature control (225-700°F)
- Dual-sided cast iron grates
Read more: Top 6 Charcoal Briquettes: A Buyer's Guide
Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill: A Budget-Friendly Option
The Royal Gourmet charcoal grill offers excellent value for its price. It boasts convenient side tables for prepping, a built-in thermometer for temperature monitoring, and a warming rack to keep food warm. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the easily removable large ashtray.
Despite its affordability, the grill doesn't skimp on features. The height-adjustable charcoal pan allows for both grilling and smoking, and a door simplifies charcoal replenishment. A lower shelf offers additional storage space for grilling accessories.
Buy a Light Charcoal Grill: Versatile Fire Pit and Grill
This innovative product seamlessly blends a fire pit with a charcoal grill. You can enjoy a campfire or use charcoal for grilling, making it a highly versatile choice. The meshed body offers a unique visual appeal and efficient airflow.
A key feature is the integrated fan powered by a rechargeable battery pack, providing adjustable flame control and smoke reduction. The control is convenient via an app or directly on the unit. It even includes a USB port for charging devices, increasing its practicality.
Weber Original Kettle Charcoal Grill: A Classic Choice
The Weber Original Kettle is an iconic charcoal grill, renowned for its performance and durability. Its versatile design enables both direct and indirect grilling, as well as smoking. With a generous cooking surface, it can handle large quantities of food.
The hinged grill grate simplifies adding fuel and rearranging coals, while the one-touch ash catcher simplifies cleaning. Integrated hooks on the side handles keep tools readily accessible. Its classic design ensures consistent, even cooking.
Cuisinart Kettle Charcoal Grill: A Classic with Modern Touches
The Cuisinart Kettle provides a classic kettle grill experience with modern improvements. Made from durable porcelain-coated cast iron and featuring a two-wheel design for portability, it's a well-built option.
The built-in lid thermometer aids in temperature control, and it easily cooks up to 13 burgers at once. This grill consistently produces even cooking and retains heat well. It's a reliable option for any charcoal grilling enthusiast.
Dyna-Glo Charcoal Grill: Large Capacity and Precise Control
The Dyna-Glo grill stands out with its impressive size and features a removable divider to adjust cooking space. The adjustable charcoal trays offer individual temperature control for each side, maximizing versatility.
Convenient front doors allow for easy charcoal access and management, while the drawer-style ash catcher ensures effortless cleaning. The adjustable smoke stack further refines temperature and smoke control, and bonus features include built-in bottle opener, side shelves, and a bottom rack.
PK Grills Charcoal Grill: Stylish and Efficient
The PK 360 Grille and smoker is a visually appealing charcoal grill that combines classic design with modern enhancements. Its larger cooking surface than the classic model offers ample space. The flat bottom and rectangular shape provide excellent heat distribution.
Constructed with durable materials and improved design, this grill stands out aesthetically. It's a great option for those who desire a balance of functionality and style. Its efficient design ensures even cooking for various applications.
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560: Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker
Masterbuilt's Gravity Series 560 combines grilling and smoking capabilities in one versatile unit. Its hopper feeds charcoal for up to 12 hours of cooking, while a fan circulates hot air for even temperature distribution. Wood chips can also be added for smoking.
A digital temperature panel provides precise control, allowing for both low and slow smoking and high-heat searing. Dual-sided cast iron grates are ideal for both grilling and smoking. It's a high-tech option for serious grilling and smoking enthusiasts.
Kamado Joe Charcoal Grill: Superior Temperature Control
Kamado Joe ceramic grills excel at maintaining consistent temperatures, making them perfect for smoking and high-heat cooking. This model is largely pre-assembled, simplifying setup. The wheeled base provides mobility for easy storage.
The durable construction and excellent temperature regulation are key advantages. It can achieve high temperatures for searing and maintain lower temperatures for slow cooking, making it highly versatile. It's a premium option for those prioritizing temperature precision.
Oklahoma Joe's Rambler: Portable Charcoal Grill
The Oklahoma Joe's Rambler is a portable option ideal for smaller spaces or occasional grilling. Its two large handles and compact footprint ensure easy maneuverability. The tool for lifting the grates simplifies charcoal replenishment.
An adjustable charcoal tray allows for precise temperature control, enabling both high-heat searing and low-and-slow cooking. It delivers excellent sear marks and maintains temperature effectively. Its easy cleaning adds to its convenience.
Char-Griller Super Pro: Versatile and Easy to Assemble
The Char-Griller Super Pro is a popular choice known for its solid construction and convenient features. Its storage shelves and relatively lightweight design make it easy to handle. A warming rack expands the cooking area, offering additional space.
The cast iron grates and side vent/smoke stack provide precise temperature control, allowing for versatile cooking styles. It's easy to assemble, with clear instructions and identifiable parts. Its versatility extends to smoking with the optional side firebox attachment.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Charcoal Grill
The best charcoal grill for you depends on your needs and budget. Budget-conscious options like the Royal Gourmet offer impressive value, while those seeking premium features and performance might opt for Kamado Joe or Weber. Versatility is a key factor, with some grills excelling at both grilling and smoking.
Consider factors like cooking space, temperature control, ease of cleaning, and additional features when making your decision. Whether you prioritize portability, large capacity, or precise temperature regulation, there's a perfect charcoal grill to elevate your outdoor cooking experience.