Best Charcoal Grills of 2026

Bryan Hicks Avatar
Bryan Hicks
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2026

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Charcoal grills are a classic and popular option for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. They offer a smoky and authentic flavor that cannot be replicated by gas grills. Charcoal grills come in a variety of sizes and styles, from portable models perfect for camping or tailgating to larger models for backyard barbecues. They are easy to use and require only a bag of charcoal and some lighter fluid to get started. Charcoal grills also give users the ability to control the temperature by adjusting the amount of charcoal used and the placement of the grill grates.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill Cover #TOP 1
Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch Cover #TOP 2
Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30" Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker Cover #TOP 3
Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30" Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Charcoal Grills

#TOP 1

Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill

741001
Black
Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill Cover
Weber Original Kettle Charcoal Grill for Outdoor Cooking and Barbecue, 22-Inch, Black

The Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill is built to last with its ultra-durable, porcelain-enameled lid and bowl that retain heat and won't rust or peel. The dampers allow for precise temperature control, and the One-Touch cleaning system makes ash cleanup hassle-free. With a capacity to hold up to 13 burgers, you can grill for the whole family. Plus, the lid hook provides convenience by avoiding placing the lid on the ground while grilling. Assembly is made easy with the 3D interactive instructions available through the free BILT app.

What We Like
Large cooking surface
Easy heat control
Simple cleaning system
Sturdy construction
Great smoky flavor
What We Don't Like
Ash pan design could improve
Some accessories lack quality
#TOP 2

Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch

14401001
Black
22 inch
Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch Cover
Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Black

The Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill is designed to cook up to 13 burgers at a time, and comes with a built-in lid thermometer and rust-resistant aluminum dampers. The One-Touch cleaning system with high-capacity ash catcher provides hassle-free ash cleanup, while the porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat and won't rust or peel. Additionally, this grill features a hinged cooking grate for easily adding charcoal while grilling, and a lid hook to avoid placing the lid on the ground.

What We Like
Easy assembly process
Classic, timeless design
Versatile cooking options
Affordable entry cost
Durable and long-lasting
What We Don't Like
Ash catcher attachment tricky

Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30" Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker

CC1830S
Black
Grill
Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30" Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker Cover
Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker | 823 Square Inch cooking surface, Outdoor for Camping | Black

The Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30" Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker is perfect for outdoor camping. It offers an 811 square inch cooking surface, which includes 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates, 184 sq. in. chrome-plated warming rack and 184 sq. in. offset smoker. The offset smoker is securely attached to the grill, ensuring good circulation of heat and smoke. The adjustable pan offers 2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan for better heat control, while the lid-mounted thermometer gauge helps check and monitor the cooking temperature. With front and side tables, and a bottom shelf for extra storage space, this grill offers ample workspace for seasonings and grilling tools.

What We Like
Affordable price
Sturdy construction
Generous accessories
Multiple grilling areas
Easy to assemble
What We Don't Like
Minor heat leakage
Some assembly effort
#TOP 4

DNKMOR Charcoal Grill with Side Table

A-15
Regular size
DNKMOR Charcoal Grill with Side Table Cover
Charcoal Grill Outdoor BBQ Grill, Barrel Charcoal Grills with Side Table, with Nearly 500 Sq.In. Cooking Grid Area, Outdoor Backyard Camping Picnics, Patio and Parties, Black

The DNKMOR Charcoal Grill offers a spacious cooking area of approximately 500 square inches, perfect for hosting large gatherings. Its enamel-coated grilling racks and chrome-plated warming rack are designed for high-temperature cooking and are easy to clean, making your grilling experience hassle-free. The built-in lid thermometer allows you to keep an eye on the cooking temperature, while the adjustable charcoal pan gives you control over the heat levels. Additionally, with its two wheels and side handle, moving the grill is a breeze, and the side table provides ample space for your grilling essentials.

What We Like
Spacious grilling area
Easy assembly and setup
Durable construction
Perfect for small spaces
Maintains heat well
What We Don't Like
Setup can take extra time
Instructions could be clearer
#TOP 5

Gas One Charcoal Grill - Portable and Compact with 3-Point Locking Lid

Gas One
CG-14
14 Inch (Diameter)
Gas One Charcoal Grill - Portable and Compact with 3-Point Locking Lid Cover
Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid for Heat Preservation – Dual Venting System – Small Charcoal Grill for Backyard, Camping, Boat

The Gas One Charcoal Grill is a portable and compact barbecue grill perfect for backyard, camping or boat trips. It has a 14-inch/150-square inch cooking surface that ensures even heat distribution and uniform cooking. The 3-point locking lid traps heat and cooks your food uniformly like in a smoker or oven. Its dual ventilation system provides a constant air flow to keep the fire going and ensure optimal temperature for perfect cooking. The grill also features an ash catcher that prevents any mess around the grilling area.

What We Like
Portable and lightweight
Easy assembly and cleaning
Even heating
Affordable price
Good for small groups
What We Don't Like
Thin metal construction
Legs not fully sturdy
#TOP 6

Royal Gourmet CC1830 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill

CC1830
Black
Charcoal Grill
Royal Gourmet CC1830 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill Cover
Royal Gourmet CC1830 30 Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill with Warming Rack, Outdoor BBQ Grill with 627 Sq. In. Grilling Space for Backyard, Patio and Parties, Black

The Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill is a great option for outdoor cooking. With 627 square inches of smoking space, you can cook a lot of food at once. The height-adjustable fire pan can hold up to 6 lbs of coal, giving you more control over the heat. The side air vent can be closed to help extinguish coals and the smoke stack can be adjusted for extra heat control. The lid-mounted thermometer gauge helps you check heat fluctuations for confident grilling. Cleaning up is also a breeze thanks to the removable charcoal pan. Overall, the Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill is a versatile and practical choice for your backyard, patio, and parties.

What We Like
Spacious cooking area
Sturdy construction
Easy assembly
Good temperature control
Simple cleanup
What We Don't Like
Warming rack attachment issue
Slightly lightweight build
#TOP 7

Royal Gourmet CC1624 Charcoal Grill

CC1624
Black
Royal Gourmet CC1624 Charcoal Grill Cover
Royal Gourmet CC1624 Barrel Charcoal Grill, Large Charcoal Grill with Side & Front Shelves, 426 sq. in. Cooking Grid, Sturdy Side Shelf with Hooks, for Outdoor Backyard and Picnics, Black

The Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill offers a spacious cooking area with 426 square inches, including a main grill and a warming rack to keep your food ready. You’ll appreciate the convenient front and side shelves for prepping ingredients, plus hooks and a bottom shelf to keep your tools and accessories organized and within easy reach. The grill’s porcelain-coated steel grates hold heat well and help your food cook evenly while preventing sticking. For precise grilling, it features adjustable airflow through a lid stack and side vent, ensuring balanced heat so your meals come out just right every time.

What We Like
Large cooking surface
Multiple prep and storage areas
Durable heat-retentive grates
Adjustable airflow for heat control
#TOP 8

Cuisinart Portable Charcoal Grill

CCG190RB
14.5" x 14.5" x 15"
Cuisinart Portable Charcoal Grill Cover
Cuisinart 14" Portable Charcoal Grill, Tabletop Outdoor Small Grill with Locking Lid and Dual Vents, Chrome Plated Travel Size BBQ Perfect for Camping, Tailgates, Cookouts, Red

The Cuisinart Portable Charcoal Grill is a durable and portable solution for on-the-go grilling needs. It features a 196-square-inch chrome plated cooking rack that distributes heat evenly and efficiently. The dual venting system helps control the temperature, allowing you to cook slow and low or up at searing hot temperatures. This grill is compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport to decks, patios, balconies, camping, and tailgating. It also features three secure lid locks for easy and safe transport, and a mess-free ash catcher for convenience.

What We Like
Compact and portable design
Durable build quality
Easy assembly and cleaning
Locks securely for transport
Fits multiple portions
What We Don't Like
Small cooking surface
Minor assembly challenges
#TOP 9

Royal Gourmet 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill

CC1830V
Black
Grill
Royal Gourmet 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill Cover
Royal Gourmet CC1830V 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill with Wood-Painted Side Front Table, 627 Square Inches Cooking Space, for Outdoor Backyard, Patio and Parties, Black

The Royal Gourmet 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill offers 627 square inches of cooking space with porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates and chrome-plated steel wire warming rack. The side air vent can be closed to cut off oxygen flow and adjust the smoke stack for extra heat control. The adjustable fire grates offer two different heights to control the distance between charcoal and food, while the lid-mounted gauge helps to monitor the inner temperature. The fire grate is easy to dump, allowing for quick and mess-free cleanup after cooking.

What We Like
Easy assembly
Good heat control
Sturdy construction
Reasonable price
Spacious grilling area
What We Don't Like
Thin metal coal platform
Side balance slightly off
#TOP 10

Weber Jumbo Joe 22" Grill

1321001
Black
22 inches
Weber Jumbo Joe 22" Grill Cover
Weber Jumbo Joe Premium Charcoal Grill for Outdoor Cooking and BBQ, 22-Inch, Black

The Weber Jumbo Joe Grill offers a large cooking area that can accommodate up to 13 burgers at once, making it perfect for gatherings. Its durable porcelain-enameled lid and bowl help retain heat, ensuring your food cooks evenly while resisting rust and peeling. You’ll appreciate the convenient lid hook, which keeps the lid off the ground while you grill, preventing messes. Plus, the adjustable dampers allow you to easily manage the internal temperature for optimal cooking results. With these features, grilling becomes a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.

What We Like
Easy to assemble
Sturdy construction
Long-lasting durability
Versatile cooking options
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Could be bigger
Buying Guide Image

The Complete Guide to Buying Charcoal Grills

Introduction

Are you in the market for a new charcoal grill? There are many factors to consider when choosing the right grill for your outdoor cooking needs. In this article, we will discuss some of the key points to keep in mind when selecting a charcoal grill.

Size and Capacity

One of the first things to consider when choosing a charcoal grill is its size and capacity. If you are planning on cooking for a large group of people, you will need a larger grill with more cooking space. On the other hand, if you are only planning on cooking for a small group or just yourself, a smaller grill may be sufficient.

Type of Grill

Another important factor to consider is the type of grill you want. There are two main types of charcoal grills: kettle grills and barrel grills. Kettle grills are round and have a dome-shaped lid, whereas barrel grills are rectangular and have a flat lid. Both types of grills have their own unique features and benefits, so it's important to consider which type will best suit your needs.

Material and Construction

The material and construction of a charcoal grill are also important factors to consider. Grills are typically made of either steel or cast iron. Steel grills are lightweight and easy to move, but they may not be as durable as cast iron grills. Cast iron grills are heavier and more durable, but they may be more difficult to move and require more maintenance.

Features and Accessories

When choosing a charcoal grill, it's also important to consider the features and accessories it comes with. Some grills come with features such as built-in thermometers, ash catchers, and side tables, which can make grilling more convenient and efficient. It's also worth looking for grills that come with accessories such as grilling tools and covers, which can help protect your grill and make it last longer.

Price and Brand

Lastly, consider the price and brand of the grill you are considering. There are many different brands and price points to choose from, so it's important to find a grill that fits your budget and meets your needs. It's also worth researching the reputation and customer satisfaction of the brand you are considering, to ensure that you are buying a high-quality product that will last.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right charcoal grill requires careful consideration of several factors, including size and capacity, type, material and construction, features and accessories, price and brand. By taking the time to carefully research and compare your options, you can find the perfect grill for your outdoor cooking needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is charcoal BBQ better than propane?

Charcoal BBQs have the advantage of getting much hotter, much faster, which is ideal for achieving a perfect sear on steaks or grilled veggies. Unless you have a gas grill with infrared burners, charcoal BBQs are generally preferred for their ability to provide a more direct and intense heat to the food.

2. Are wood chips or chunks better for charcoal grilling?

Both wood chips and chunks work well for charcoal grilling. The main difference is that chips burn faster, making them suitable for adding a light smoke over a shorter period. If you plan to smoke your food for an hour or more, using chunks might be more convenient as they burn slower.

3. What burns better charcoal or briquettes?

Charcoal burns hotter and adds more flavor to your food, making it a popular choice for grilling. Briquettes, on the other hand, are great for producing long-lasting heat. While they can be used for searing, they may not infuse as much flavor into your dish compared to charcoal.

4. What are the pros and cons of a charcoal grill?

Some pros of a charcoal grill include infusing lots of flavor into food, grilling at higher temperatures, lower cost, and smaller size. However, charcoal grills have some cons as well, such as messier clean up, higher risk of fire, and longer heating time.

5. Why do people prefer propane over charcoal?

Propane grills are preferred by some due to their ease of starting up and heating up within minutes. They offer direct, high heat, which is desirable for achieving a darker, all-over sear on food, particularly steaks.

6. Is black or stainless steel better for a grill?

Stainless steel is generally considered better for a grill, as it has a higher chance of withstanding corrosion and rust caused by the fat, moisture, and other elements present during grilling. Stainless steel is more resistant to air-born corrosive attacks from salt and chemicals, making it a durable option for outdoor grills.

Editor's Notes

During our charcoal grill research, we found 24 charcoal grill products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 235,250 customer reviews through our big data system to write the charcoal grills list. We found that most customers choose charcoal grills with an average price of $102.74.

The charcoal grills are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of charcoal grills, including Weber, Royal Gourmet, DNKMOR, Gas One, Cuisinart. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Bryan Hicks Avatar

Bryan Hicks is a professional gardener and a writer who lives in North Texas with his family and his dog. Bryan has spent more than half of his life surrounded by garden products. He has extensive experience in garden makeovers and maintenance and lawn care. His areas of expertise include outdoor decoration, gardening and garden design.

Charcoal Grills Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Weber Weber Royal Gourmet DNKMOR Gas One Royal Gourmet Royal Gourmet Cuisinart Royal Gourmet Weber
Fuel Type Charcoal Charcoal Charcoal Charcoal Charcoal Charcoal Charcoal Charcoal Charcoal Charcoal
Special Feature Durable Cooking Grate, Heat Shield, One-Touch Cleaning System, Precise Heat Control, Superior Heat Retention Heat Shield, Hinged Cooking Grate, Lid Thermometer, One-Touch Cleaning System, Superior Heat Retention - Rust Resistant, Warming Rack Warming Rack Built-In Thermometer, Removable Charcoal Pan, Tool Holder, Warming Rack Built-In Thermometer, Convenient prep & storage with shelves and utensil hooks Dual Venting System, Three Secure Lid Locks, Mess-Free Ash Catcher, Portable Adjustable Fire Grates, Equipped with Front Table, Equipped with Side Table, Tool Holder, Warming Rack Superior Heat Retention
Color Black Black Black - Red Black Black Portable Charcoal Grill, 14" (Red) Black Black
Recommended Uses For Product - - Outdoor Outdoor - - Outdoor - Outdoor Outdoor
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
Where to Buy